SAFETY FEARS OVER FAT JABS FOR RAF PILOTS

Defence chiefs to review new drugs with obesity rising in military

- BY JAMES KNUCKEY and DAVID WILLIAMSON

ALARM bells "should be ringing" as the RAF considers allowing overweight pilots to use weight-loss drugs.

In a move that experts warn could put lives at risk and shatter long-held standards of fitness, the Sunday Express understands defence chiefs are considering greater use of the controversial drugs across the military.

While fighter pilots face strict limits on their weight so they can safely eject from aircraft, RAF medical professionals warn obesity is becoming "common".

Weight-loss drugs are not currently approved for pilots, aircrew or controllers, but a document seen by the Sunday Express confirmed this policy is now under review. In the memo, three medical staff state there has been a rising demand for the drugs, which has led to "many" in the forces seeking treatment from private providers.

Army veteran and former defence minister Sarah Atherton said: "The idea of military pilots and aircrew turning to weight-loss jabs should set alarm bells ringing.

"The forces are meant to be fighting fit, not medicated into shape. Side-effects such as dizziness and nausea are a liability in any cockpit or ops environment."

Ms Atherton, who has also worked as a nurse, gave a further warning: "Some personnel are already buying these drugs online without informing their medical officers, which is a catastrophe waiting to happen.

"Pilots and operators are trusted with complex systems and multi-million-pound kit, not to mention lives."