Burden and Service gaps in NHS tiered weight management pathway (WEIGHT-TIER)

Obesity is a growing health problem. Approximately two-thirds (64%) of adults in England are above a healthy weight, with approximately 26% living with obesity [1]. Obesity is recognised as a significant public health issue and a driver of long-term health challenges including type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular Version 1.5 – October 2025 Page 6 of 29 disease. Evidence suggests that weight loss is associated with important improvements to quality of life and long-term clinical outcomes in patients. Real-world evidence on obesity treatment, access to weight management services and resource use is, therefore, of growing importance for healthcare decision making. In addition to addressing the commercial aims of the funder of this project, the results will inform ICHP’s research and innovation mission focussed on obesity (https://imperialcollegehealthpartners.com/reimagininghow- we-tackle-obesity-a-mission-built-with-and-for-north-west-london/), which aims to “By 2030, stop the rise in obesity in North West London (NWL) and set it on a sustained path towards reduction, starting where need and inequality are greatest”. ICHP has identified that this research question is a priority/of benefit for patients/the public; in January 2026, ICHP conducted research, reviewed existing data, and engaged with stakeholders ̶ including NWL patients and the public ̶ to develop a shortlist of five themes from which to select one to guide the mission. In March 2026, ICHP organised a full day Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement event with 37 NWL residents to deliberate on the five themes. The event had representation from across the eight NWL boroughs, all adult age groups, both sexes, people living in poorer areas, people with disabilities or long-term health conditions, those not currently working, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, and people who have used NHS obesity or weight management services. All five themes presented to the event attendees were identified of equal priority and importance for patient and the public benefit. The aims of this project directly align with two of the five selected themes; – Making weight management services more accessible and engaging – Preventing long-term conditions through access to weight loss medicines and wraparound care. Evidence drawn from real-world data is a key element in ICHP’s mission-led approach to innovation. ICHP believes that access to timely, high-quality data underpins credible decision-making and learning. The results from this study will both be reported to the commercial company funding the study as well as inform the delivery of ICHP’s obesity mission.