For individuals struggling with obesity and heart disease, a new analysis suggests that semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) could be a game-changer—not just for their health but for healthcare costs, too.

Published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, the study reveals that while semaglutide isn’t cost-effective at current prices, price reductions could make it a high-value treatment. Researchers from the University of Calgary found that with a 50% price reduction, semaglutide could meet the value benchmark for healthcare, urging policymakers to consider long-term savings.

Obesity, expected to affect over half the world’s population by 2035, increases the risk of heart disease. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has shown promise in regulating blood sugar, reducing appetite, and slowing digestion. Currently, it’s only funded for diabetics in Canada.

Lead researcher Derek Chew, MD, emphasizes the potential benefits: “With price cuts, semaglutide could offer significant health and economic benefits for non-diabetic individuals with cardiovascular disease.”

The study’s findings highlight the need for a shift in healthcare funding towards preventive measures that offer long-term value, rather than just treating existing conditions.

As obesity continues to rise, funding effective treatments like semaglutide could be crucial for improving public health and reducing long-term healthcare costs.