The use of innovative medications for obesity control, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, has revolutionized the approach to this condition. However, their application in elderly patients continues to raise questions among the medical community. This issue is the focus of the debate at the 66th National Congress of the Spanish Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology (SEGG) and the 36th Congress of the Canarian Society, taking place at the Gran Canaria Congress Palace.
Dr. Alfonso Cruz Jentoft, Head of Geriatrics at the Ramón y Cajal University Hospital in Madrid, will participate in a session dedicated to GLP-1 analogues. These drugs, initially developed for diabetes, have proven effective against obesity. Nevertheless, the specialist warns of the limited scientific evidence in individuals over 70 years old, who constitute less than 2% in the studies conducted. Therefore, their use in this population group must be "with caution," especially in patients with complex pathologies, as their impact remains unknown.
One of the primary concerns is the loss of muscle mass associated with these treatments. According to Cruz Jentoft, between 25% and 33% of the weight lost is muscle, and fat is regained more quickly than muscle when weight is regained. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended to combine medication with strength training and increased protein intake.
Beyond medication, Dr. Cruz emphasizes the importance of diet, advocating for the Mediterranean diet as a reference model for healthy aging. He recommends consuming legumes, fruits, and vegetables, reducing red meat intake, and using olive oil for cooking. He also stresses the importance of multicomponent physical activity, combining aerobic exercise and strength training, along with balance-improving activities like Tai Chi, particularly from the age of 70 onwards.
The congress will also address the paradigm shift in the understanding of obesity, now considered a chronic metabolic disease, similar to diabetes, and not solely a result of poor habits. The involvement of hormonal mechanisms in regulating appetite has been demonstrated, suggesting that many individuals will require lifelong treatment, always complemented by healthy lifestyle habits. A complete transformation of the field is anticipated in the next five years.
Under the theme "Towards Active Longevity: Science, Care, and Community," the event will bring together nearly a thousand experts to discuss healthy aging, the rights of older adults, frailty, gerontology, and dementias. It will also explore the applications of artificial intelligence and biomarkers for the early diagnosis of cognitive decline, as well as technologies for home care. The percentage of people over 65 in the Canary Islands has increased from 11.6% in 2000 to 18.2% in 2025, representing 18.6% in Gran Canaria.
