Obesity Decline from Record Levels, Survey Reveals: Key Reasons
A Shift in Obesity Trends
For the first time in years, the obesity rate in the United States is showing a decline. This change is largely attributed to the increasing use of weight loss injections such as Ozempic and Wegovy. According to recent data, the adult obesity rate has dropped to 37.0% in 2025, down from a record high of 39.9% in 2022. This decrease represents approximately 7.6 million fewer obese adults across the country. Despite this improvement, the U.S. still maintains one of the highest obesity rates in the Western world.
The Rise of GLP-1 Injections
Alongside the drop in obesity rates, there has been a significant increase in the use of GLP-1 injectables like semaglutide for weight loss. Gallup’s research indicates that 12.4% of adults now use these medications, up from 5.8% in early 2024. This surge in usage reflects growing awareness and acceptance of these treatments. Women are particularly leading this trend, with 15.2% reporting use of the drugs compared to 9.7% of men. Both genders have more than doubled their usage within the past year, as awareness of these medications has risen from 80% to 89% nationwide.
Age Group Impacts
Obesity rates have declined across most age groups, especially among adults aged 40 to 64. This same age group also reports the highest usage of GLP-1 medications. Those aged 40 to 49 saw their obesity rate fall by 4.3 points since 2022, reaching 43.3%, while adults aged 50 to 64 experienced a five-point drop to 42.8%. These figures highlight the effectiveness of GLP-1 treatments in reducing obesity among middle-aged adults.
Diabetes Diagnoses Remain High
Despite the progress in weight loss, diabetes diagnoses have reached an all-time high of 13.8%. This statistic suggests that even as obesity rates improve, the chronic condition often persists. According to Gallup, “The growing popularity of GLP-1s has led to healthier [body mass index] scores but has not lessened the rate of diabetes diagnoses, which is a lifetime diagnosis.” The organization emphasizes that only if the rate of new diabetes cases starts to decline will the U.S. rate eventually follow.
Approval and Coverage of Semaglutide
Semaglutide was approved for weight loss in 2021 and has since become one of the most recognized medications in the U.S. Thirteen states now fully cover GLP-1 treatments for obesity through Medicaid, with more considering similar legislation. This expansion of coverage is expected to further increase access to these life-changing medications.
The Importance of Healthy Habits
While the new drugs have helped lower obesity rates, they are not a substitute for healthier diet and exercise habits. Gallup researchers note that “Sustained health progress will likely depend not only on medical innovation but also on rebuilding healthier daily routines that complement pharmacological treatments.” This underscores the importance of combining medication with lifestyle changes for long-term success.
Methodology and Additional Insights
Gallup conducted its survey of 16,946 adults online during the first nine months of 2025. The findings provide valuable insights into the changing landscape of health in the United States. As the use of GLP-1 medications continues to rise, it remains crucial to monitor both obesity rates and related health conditions to ensure comprehensive public health strategies.
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