EASO Framework for Obesity Treatment Reveals Extensive Industry Ties Among Authors
New guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of obesity and its complications, released by the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), have surfaced with disclosures revealing significant financial connections between several authors and pharmaceutical companies developing and marketing obesity drugs. The disclosures, detailed in the published article, highlight potential conflicts of interest that warrant scrutiny as healthcare professionals consider implementing the EASO’s recommendations.
Several authors report receiving honoraria, consulting fees, research grants, and speaker fees from major pharmaceutical companies including Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Boehringer Ingelheim, AstraZeneca, Sanofi, and others. B.M. has received speaker and/or advisory fees from Novo Nordisk, Eli-Lilly, Astra Zeneca, Janssen, Pfizer, MSD and a research grant from Novo Nordisk; and is a shareholder of reset health. A.C. discloses speaking fees from multiple companies, research grants from Eli Lilly and NovoNordisk, and membership on a Boehringer Ingelheim data monitoring commitee. J.L.B. received a consulting fee from Novo Nordisk A/S, paid to her institution.L.B. reports honoraria from a broad range of companies including Regeneron and Rhythm Pharmaceuticals. D.D. received speaker and advisory board fees, as well as research grants, from several key players in the obesity treatment market.G.F. received honoraria from Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Regeneron and Astra Zeneca, and was a member of the OPEN Spain Initiative. Matteo Monami received speaking fees and research grants from numerous companies, including Bristol Myers Squibb and Novartis.P.S. received honoraria and consulting fees from Boehringer Ingelheim, Chiesi, Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Pfizer, and Roche. B.M.-T. received grants from the EASO New Clinical Investigator Award 2024 and the EFSD Rising Star 2024, both supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. V.Y. engaged in advisory boards and lectures with novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Rhythm and Regeneron.
Notably, G.G.and E.W. declared no conflicts of interest.
The EASO framework aims to provide a extensive approach to obesity management, encompassing lifestyle interventions and pharmacological options. The disclosures raise questions about the potential influence of industry funding on the progress and presentation of these guidelines, prompting calls for transparency and independent evaluation of treatment recommendations.
