A new national survey suggests a shift in America’s weight story: fewer adults report obesity as prescriptions for GLP‑1 and related weight‑loss drugs surge. At the same time, more people say they have been diagnosed with diabetes. Doctors and dietitians say the trends are real — but the data need context.
What Gallup asked and the headline numbers
Gallup carried out online interviews with nearly 17,000 U.S. adults across the first nine months of 2025.
Using self‑reported height and weight to calculate BMI, the company found the adult obesity rate fell from about 40% in 2022 to roughly 37% in 2025.
The pollsters estimate that amounts to about 7.6 million fewer adults with obesity compared with the 2022 peak.
- Female obesity rates slipped to just under 39%.
- Male obesity rates dropped to about 35%.
- Adults aged 40–64 showed the largest declines.
Gallup also reported that nearly 14% of adults say they were ever diagnosed with diabetes — a record high in the poll’s history.
How experts read the survey results
Clinicians say the numbers fit what they are seeing in clinics, but they caution against overinterpreting self‑reported data.
Primary care doctors note BMI based on self‑reported height and weight has limits. Muscle gain, posture differences, or reporting errors can affect BMI calculations.
On diabetes, specialists point out that asking if someone was “ever diagnosed” captures past diagnoses too, even if a person’s condition has improved or gone into remission.
Experts stress interpretation matters: the figures show important shifts, but they don’t tell the whole clinical story.
Who is using GLP‑1 drugs — and how much has use grown
Prescription use of GLP‑1 medications has climbed steeply. Gallup’s data show use rising from about 6% in early 2024 to roughly 12% in 2025.
- About 15% of women reported taking a GLP‑1 drug, versus under 10% of men.
- Usage was highest in the 50–64 age group, at roughly 17%.
- People 40–49 reported about 16% use; those 65 and older were around 11%.
Clinicians say motivation runs from treating obesity and metabolic disease to cosmetic weight loss.
Many patients report fewer cravings and better portion control after starting these drugs.
How semaglutide and tirzepatide work
There are two major classes of modern weight‑loss injectables approved for obesity and, in some cases, type 2 diabetes.
- Semaglutide — marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy — targets the GLP‑1 receptor.
- Tirzepatide — sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound — combines GLP‑1 and GIP activity.
Both act on brain centers that control appetite and satiety. They also slow stomach emptying, which helps people feel full longer.
Benefits seen in trials and practice
- Substantial average weight loss in clinical studies.
- Improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
- Some evidence suggests reduced risk of cardiovascular events and certain cancers.
Side effects, safety concerns, and monitoring
Like all medicines, these drugs can cause unwanted effects. The most common are gastrointestinal.
- Nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Headache, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
Most experts emphasize the need for ongoing medical oversight. Lab checks, dose adjustments, and symptom tracking are standard.
Physicians warn that people using GLP‑1s without medical supervision should be cautious.
Why diabetes rates may still rise even as obesity falls
Although BMI trends and diabetes risk overlap, the relationship is not one‑to‑one.
- Type 2 diabetes has many drivers beyond weight, including genetics and age.
- Survey questions that capture any past diagnosis can inflate prevalence compared with current active disease rates.
- Some people with improved weight and metabolic health may still be counted as “diabetes” if asked about prior diagnoses.
Experts say the rising diabetes number and falling obesity rate can coexist, especially during a period of rapid treatment change.
Practical checklist before starting a weight‑loss medication
Clinicians recommend a thoughtful plan before beginning therapy.
- Consult a qualified prescriber to assess benefits and risks.
- Review medical history for contraindications and drug interactions.
- Develop a nutrition and exercise program alongside medication.
- Plan for common side effects like nausea and possible dehydration.
- Agree on monitoring schedules: labs, weight, and symptom checks.
- Discuss an off‑ramp strategy to taper or stop medication safely.
- Include mental‑health or behavioral support when food cravings or emotional eating are issues.
Providers say long‑term success depends on combining medication with lifestyle changes and a solid care team.
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- WHO issues first-ever GLP-1 guidelines for obesity: what this means for patients
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