(NewsNation) — The rate of adult obesity in the United States continued its gradual decline in 2025, as the use of GLP-1 drugs saw a sharp incline.
The adult obesity rate declined again to 37% this year — down from last year’s 37.5%, and 2022’s record-high of 39.9% — according to new numbers from Gallup.
The biggest improvements are among adults 40 to 64, where prescriptions for these drugs have also spiked the most.
But these numbers come from self-reported surveys, so while the trend is clear, the actual obesity rate may still be higher.
Weight loss drug use doubled since early 2024: Gallup
Researchers point to the weight loss drug boom in recent years as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and other drugs have swept the health scene, particularly in the last year.
Gallup polling found that the use of weight loss injectables has more than doubled in U.S. adults since early 2024, now 12.4% compared to the previous 5.8%.
The medications — typically used to treat diabetes — mimic a hormone that decreases appetite, slows digestion and improves the body’s response to blood sugar, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Along with its latest obesity numbers, Gallup warned, “While GLP-1s support weight management, they should not be considered a cure-all for overall health or other disease states.”
It’s a sentiment shared by health and wellness coach Jill Charton, who does not see the injectable route as a long-term solution for those looking to lose weight.
While the drugs may curb appetite and lead to weight loss, they don’t necessarily build healthy habits or teach people to eat well, according to Charton.
“You can’t outsmart your body,” Charton said.
Many patients lose muscle along with fat, and the drugs can cause fatigue that discourages strength training.
While more people than ever are getting help using the drugs, a majority stop taking them within a year — usually because of cost or side effects.