US obesity rates have declined slightly in 2023, according to a new study published in JAMA Health Forum. The research, led by Ben Rader, analyzed data from over 16.7 million adults between 2013 and 2023.
The study found that the average body mass index (BMI) plateaued in 2022 before taking a slight dip in 2023. Obesity prevalence also decreased from 44.11% in 2022 to 43.96% in 2023. This represents a change in trend, with obesity rates trending downward after years of increasing.
The increase in prescriptions for weight loss drugs like Wegovy is believed to be contributing factor. Rader notes that individual-level success stories with these medications translate to population-level changes. While the impact on national obesity rates remains unclear, this new data suggests progress is being made.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) previously reported plateaued obesity rates from 2021 to 2023. However, severe obesity rates increased during the same period. The CDC data shows approximately 40% of adults in the US have obesity.
Source: https://www.dallasnews.com/business/health-care/2024/12/13/us-obesity-rates-dip-in-2023-for-the-first-time-in-a-decade-study-shows