Czech health minister Vojtěch stresses prevention over drugs for child obesity

Minister of Health Adam Vojtěch said that while weight‑loss medication could be reimbursed for a narrow group of severely obese teenagers, drugs alone will not solve the problem. He stressed that effective treatment must combine medication with healthy eating, regular physical activity and family support, noting that "child obesity can lead to a range of chronic health complications" and that "the medication can be part of specialist care in serious cases, but it does not solve the problem on its own."

Vojtěch also highlighted ongoing preventive initiatives such as the "Be Fit 24" programme, which promotes a healthy lifestyle from early childhood. MP Michaela Šebelová backed the limited reimbursement approach, urging that any public funding for anti‑obesity drugs be based on expert recommendations and accompany strict lifestyle measures. Both officials warned that rising rates of overweight adolescents are linked to low physical activity, sugary foods and drinks, and called for broader public‑health actions to improve nutrition and encourage movement.

The discussion reflects broader concerns in the Czech Republic about the growing prevalence of childhood overweight and the need for comprehensive strategies beyond medication.