The prevalence of obesity has more than doubled globally over the past thirty years, leading to an increase in related diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and certain cancers. This burgeoning public health crisis places a significant strain on healthcare systems and economies worldwide. A new study, co-led by researchers from Mass General Brigham, suggests that integrating GLP-1 medications into treatment strategies could offer a viable solution.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health analysed data from 99 countries, encompassing 810,635 adults, to evaluate the global eligibility for GLP-1 medications.
Their findings indicate that more than one in four adults worldwide could benefit from these drugs for weight management, with the highest eligibility observed among women, older individuals, and residents of low- and middle-income countries. These insights, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, could guide policy development for the strategic deployment of GLP-1s globally.
Dr Jennifer Manne-Goehler, co-senior author and physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, stated, “GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown that biology plays a crucial role in obesity, challenging the oversimplified ‘eat less, move more’ approach.” The World Health Organization recognises the potential of GLP-1s and is working to make them more accessible. However, the challenge remains in determining the exact number of individuals who need them.
Dr Sang Gune K. Yoo, corresponding author and cardiology research fellow at WashU Medicine, explained, “Our analysis shows that over a quarter of adults globally may be eligible for GLP-1s. While these medications hold promise, further research is essential to understand their long-term safety and sustainability. Access is a significant hurdle, especially in many regions where these drugs are not readily available.”
The study utilised household health survey data from 2008 to 2021 across 99 countries, focusing on adults aged 25 to 64 with available diabetes biomarkers, blood pressure, BMI measurements, and diagnostic histories. Eligibility for GLP-1 use was determined for individuals with a BMI over 30 or those with a BMI over 27 accompanied by hypertension or diabetes.
Globally, 27% of adults were found eligible for GLP-1s, with the highest rates in Europe, North America, and the Pacific Islands. Women and older adults were more likely to be eligible. Dr Manne-Goehler highlighted the disparity, noting, “Type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of death for women in regions like South Africa, where these medications could be transformative.”
Co-lead author Dr Felix Teufel from Emory University emphasised the importance of equitable access, stating, “Ensuring large-scale access to GLP-1s for those who would benefit most is crucial, rather than prioritising those easiest to reach.” As the global health community seeks solutions to the obesity crisis, the need for equitable access to effective treatments like GLP-1s remains paramount.
For further details, refer to the study in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
