Obesity is a topic of interest for all modern people. The spread of new treatments and supplements is remarkably rapid. One of the notable recent papers regarding obesity treatment was published in the JAMA Network. This paper, by Kevin Lin and researchers from Harvard Medical School, analyzed the increase in GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) use and the decrease in obesity surgeries from 2022 to 2023. The study was based on data from 170,000 obesity patients in the United States, showing that GLP-1RA prescriptions more than doubled while obesity surgeries decreased by approximately 25.6%. The researchers emphasized the need for balance between these two treatment methods and policy considerations.

Another paper highlights the broad physiological effects of GLP-1RAs. Initially, drugs like liraglutide and semaglutide started as treatments for diabetes and obesity, and subsequent studies showed additional benefits beyond weight loss, including improved cardiovascular health and reduced chronic inflammation. These medications help with weight management primarily through appetite suppression and increased satiety.

Research results show that the use of GLP-1RA drugs for obesity treatment is rapidly increasing in clinical practice. Particularly in the United States and Europe, GLP-1RA-based medications are becoming more widespread to address various health issues related to obesity. Obesity treatment can furthermore expect additional preventive effects, such as reducing cancer risk associated with obesity. GLP-1RAs are becoming mainstream in obesity treatment as they have less patient burden than surgical treatments and provide comprehensive health improvements. At the same time, treatment accessibility and economic feasibility are emerging as important challenges.