U.S. Obesity Rates Decline for First Time in Over a Decade

A slight drop in obesity rates from 46% to 45.6% in 2023 is linked to the growing use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.

The national obesity rate decreased from 46% in 2022 to 45.6% in 2023, marking the first decline in over ten years.
Researchers attribute the change primarily to the rising popularity of semaglutide-based medications, which saw a 700% increase in use from 2019 to 2023.
The South experienced the most significant improvements in obesity rates, correlating with the region’s high prescription rates for weight-loss drugs.
Women, older adults aged 66-75, and Black Americans saw the largest decreases in obesity prevalence, according to the study.
Despite the progress, obesity remains a significant public health issue, with nearly half of U.S. adults affected and related risks like diabetes and heart disease persisting.