Summary

U.S. adult obesity rates dipped slightly from 46% in 2022 to 45.6% in 2023, marking the first decline in over a decade, according to a study published in JAMA Health Forum.

The drop, most notable in the South and among older adults and women, may be linked to the rising use of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, though other factors, such as the effects of Covid-19, may also play a role.

Experts caution against declaring this a lasting trend, citing the need for more long-term data and comprehensive research.