For the first time in over a decade, obesity and body mass index in the United States are showing a decrease, and the southern states are leading this significant change.
Researchers have highlighted that the South, despite its high levels of obesity, saw the most notable reductions. This region also had the highest rate of dispensing the type 2 diabetes drug, GLP-1RA. Notable medications like semaglutide form the basis for weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy, which are gaining traction.
However, the presence of these medications does not necessarily correlate with their uptake. The South has experienced a disproportionate rate of COVID-19 mortality among its obese population, which might be influencing these trends. These findings were documented in the JAMA Health Forum, based on an analysis of health data from over 16 million adults aged between 26 and 75 over a decade.
Experts caution that obesity and body mass index are not flawless indicators of body fat, urging for more comprehensive studies into other potential measures. Their research points to factors like the widespread availability of GLP-1RA, out-of-pocket purchases, or shifts in demographics and behavior due to the pandemic as possible reasons for these changes.
Approximately 100 million American adults live with obesity, with over 22 million affected by severe obesity. The CDC defines this condition by a body mass index of 40 or higher. Additionally, one in five American children faces this chronic disease, which is linked to increased risks of cancer, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension.
While federal regulators have approved weight-loss drugs such as Zepbound and given Wegovy clearance for specific conditions, there’s still much to learn about these medications. The authorities emphasize the need for long-term studies to fully understand their benefits, risks, and side effects. The impact of these drugs on developing type 2 diabetes or related complications remains uncertain.
Diet and physical activity still play crucial roles in managing obesity. Surprisingly, fewer than one in ten Americans meet their daily vegetable intake, and only one in four adults adhere to physical activity guidelines. These lifestyle factors continue to be pivotal in addressing obesity challenges.
As the United States marks a shift in obesity trends, especially in the South, the mix of medications and lifestyle changes highlights the complexity of tackling this public health challenge. Understanding these dynamics better is vital for shaping future health strategies.
Source: Yahoo
