Weight loss injections are being administered to military personnel who have struggled with weight gain due to their diets. In the past year, 240 soldiers received the Mounjaro and Wegovy injections to aid in shedding excess fat, a significant increase from the 73 individuals who received the injections in 2024.
Among those who received the injections last year, 128 were from the army, 58 from the RAF, and 54 from the Navy. Of these, 46 were officers, while the remaining 194 were lower-ranking personnel. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) data also reveals that a considerable number of military personnel fail their annual fitness tests due to weight-related issues.
In some cases, military staff are dismissed for obesity, with some individuals weighing over 26 stone. Additionally, there are army members with waist measurements exceeding 55 inches, with a select few being offered liposuction treatment to address their weight concerns.
Official records indicate that over 11,000 soldiers, 4,300 sailors, and 3,900 aircrew members are classified as obese based on their Body Mass Index (BMI). However, the military cautions that BMI may not always accurately reflect the body composition of personnel, as some may have a higher muscle mass than fat.
Medical records from the military show that in the previous year, nearly 6,000 personnel were prescribed anti-depressants, 2,500 were given sleeping tablets, and 872 received prescriptions for erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra. Retired British Military Intelligence Colonel Philip Ingram commended the military for utilizing various medical treatments to improve the fitness of service members.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence emphasized that only a minor portion of the Armed Forces are affected by obesity and that comprehensive lifestyle, dietary, and medical support is provided to address weight issues. Weight loss medications are considered on an individual basis as part of a holistic wellness program, with safety being a top priority in the armed forces.