Top obesity researchers funded by Novo Nordisk

The ten most cited obesity researchers since March 2022 have all received support from Novo Nordisk A/S or the Novo Nordisk Foundation, according to a count by media outlet TjekDet. Five researchers received direct fees from the company, while all ten were granted direct or indirect financial support from the foundation. The support varies, with some receiving it before or after March 2022 when Novo Nordisk introduced the weight loss drug Wegovy. Though they all have financial ties to Novo Nordisk, the collective issue arises when few researchers without such ties can be found, potentially influencing their objectivity. While some researchers have praised Wegovy, others, like Rasmus Køster-Rasmussen from the University of Copenhagen, acknowledge the difficulty in criticising a benefactor, admitting to self-censorship. However, Jens Meldgaard Bruun from Aarhus University Hospital sees no significant issue with declared funding. Five researchers shared their perspectives, recognizing potential conflicts of interest.