NAACP Commends Biden Administration for Opening Pathways to Combat Obesity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 26, 2024

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]

WASHINGTON - Today, the Biden-Harris Administration made a historic announcement, handing down a new rule that would allow Medicare and Medicaid programs to cover life-saving anti-obesity drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy, from Novo Nordisk, and Mounjaro and Zepbound, from Eli Lilly.

NAACP Director for the Center for Health Equity, Dr. Chris Pernell, released the following statement:

"Today's announcement is a crucial first step in the fight to expand access to life-saving medications. The science proves that these drugs are an effective tool in addressing our nation's obesity crisis that impacts millions of Americans. We commend the Biden-Harris administration for their leadership in unraveling the disparities that prevent our community from accessing the care they need and deserve. But this is not the end. The NAACP will continue to fight for lower medication costs, access to green spaces, food security, and the competent care needed to move our nation forward."

According to the National Institute of Health, Black Americans suffer from the highest obesity rate (49.6%) in the nation, a disparity that is fueled by a myriad of institutional inequities. A previous statute barred Medicare and Medicaid recipients from receiving access to anti-obesity drugs. The new, proposed rule would eliminate one of many impediments to progress in addressing the obesity crisis.

To learn more about NAACP's Health Equity work, visit our website.

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ABOUT NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.