US Obesity Rate Drops as Americans Turn to Weight Loss Drugs
A recent survey by Gallup has found that the obesity rate among US adults is declining, with the percentage of obese individuals dropping from 39.9% in 2022 to 37% in 2025. The decline represents a reduction of 7.6 million fewer obese adults compared to three years ago.
The decrease in obesity rates is attributed to an increase in the use of weight loss drugs, particularly GLP-1 injectables such as Ozempic and Wegovy. When Gallup first measured GLP-1 usage in February 2024, only 5.8% of adults reported taking these medications for weight loss. However, this number has risen to 12.4% in the latest survey.
The report found that the biggest reduction in obesity rates was among individuals aged 40-49 and those aged 50-64. These age groups also have the highest rates of GLP-1 injectables for weight loss. While the data is self-reported, Gallup notes that its method of collecting this information has been consistent over time.
The decline in obesity rates comes as no surprise, given the growing trend of using weight loss medications. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 40% of adults in the US are obese β a rate that has remained stable since 2022.
Experts point to expanding access to weight loss treatments as a potential factor contributing to this decline. While there is still much work to be done, the latest survey provides valuable insights into changes over time and highlights the importance of addressing obesity on a national scale.
				
			A recent survey by Gallup has found that the obesity rate among US adults is declining, with the percentage of obese individuals dropping from 39.9% in 2022 to 37% in 2025. The decline represents a reduction of 7.6 million fewer obese adults compared to three years ago.
The decrease in obesity rates is attributed to an increase in the use of weight loss drugs, particularly GLP-1 injectables such as Ozempic and Wegovy. When Gallup first measured GLP-1 usage in February 2024, only 5.8% of adults reported taking these medications for weight loss. However, this number has risen to 12.4% in the latest survey.
The report found that the biggest reduction in obesity rates was among individuals aged 40-49 and those aged 50-64. These age groups also have the highest rates of GLP-1 injectables for weight loss. While the data is self-reported, Gallup notes that its method of collecting this information has been consistent over time.
The decline in obesity rates comes as no surprise, given the growing trend of using weight loss medications. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 40% of adults in the US are obese β a rate that has remained stable since 2022.
Experts point to expanding access to weight loss treatments as a potential factor contributing to this decline. While there is still much work to be done, the latest survey provides valuable insights into changes over time and highlights the importance of addressing obesity on a national scale.