Question:
77 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Force personnel who have been prescribed a drug (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31349/01]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Personnel.
The product under reference is an ethical prescription medication authorised for use by the Medicines Board.
The product is a lipase inhibitor, acting upon digestive enzymes so that fat absorption is reduced. It is indicated in obese patients who have a body mass index – BMI – in excess of 30kg\m2, or overweight patients with associated risk factors such as diabetes or hypertension. Treatment may commence after the patient demonstrates an ability to markedly restrict fat in their diet by dietary weight loss of at least 2.5 kg over four consecutive weeks. The product assists continued weight loss by further reducing dietary fat intake and aids the patient to retain his or her dietary habits.
Since 1994 the Defence Forces have been actively pursuing a policy of increased personal fitness and maintenance of an appropriate weight to height ratio as indicated by BMI. The maximal BMI acceptable for members of the Defence Forces to undertake their fitness assessments is 30. Personnel whose BMI is in excess of 35 are liable to discharge as being below Defence Forces medical standards.
While individual metabolic rates are variable, the employment consequences of sustained obesity for a member of the Defence Forces are uniquely serious. The most valuable resources of the Defence Forces are trained military personnel. Resources invested in correcting a remediable condition such as obesity can be a more efficient solution overall than discharge and replacement.
The product was first ordered by base medical stores in April 1999. I am advised that 38 Defence Forces personnel have been prescribed the prod uct since its authorisation by the Irish Medicines Board approximately three years ago.
The Defence Forces have, for many years, taken a very proactive approach in relation to the maintenance of personal fitness and a healthy lifestyle within the military community. The provision of this prescription medication to a very small minority of personnel, where it is properly indicated, is part of this programme. The military medical authorities have advised that it is medically ethical and cost-effective.