*America’s struggle with rising obesity may be reaching a turning point. After years of unsuccessful interventions—from government health campaigns to commercial diet programs—new survey data hints at a meaningful shift in the nation’s weight trajectory.
According to Gallup’s tracking, self-reported obesity rates dropped from nearly 40 percent in 2022 to 37 percent in 2025, VOX reports. This represents the first substantial decline after a prolonged upward trend that saw rates climb from about 26 percent in 2008. While self-reported measurements have limitations and official CDC confirmation is pending, the change suggests Americans may finally be winning ground against this stubborn public health challenge.
The driving force behind this potential breakthrough appears to be GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy. These treatments work differently from previous weight-loss drugs by targeting the underlying mechanisms that complicate weight management. They decrease appetite, delay stomach emptying, and enhance how the body processes insulin following meals.
These drugs deliver benefits extending beyond weight reduction. Following clinical evidence showing decreased rates of heart attacks, strokes, and mortality in overweight patients, the FDA has authorized Wegovy for cardiovascular risk management. Potential Medicare expansion could extend availability to millions more Americans.
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Significant obstacles persist. Patients typically regain weight after discontinuing treatment, some experience severe adverse effects, and high prices create barriers for many potential users. Scientists are developing oral versions to improve accessibility and address needle aversion, which impacts roughly one-fifth of Americans.
Despite these hurdles, GLP-1 medications represent what may be the most powerful intervention available for combating obesity, promising better population health outcomes and lower healthcare expenditures nationwide.
Meanwhile, Costco members can now purchase Ozempic and Wegovy at the warehouse chain’s pharmacies. According to reports, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of both drugs, announced that a one-month supply will cost $499 out of pocket. The same discounted price has been available through the company’s direct-to-consumer site as well as CVS and Walmart.
“We want to make sure we offer the real, authentic Wegovy and Ozempic where patients seek care,” David Moore, president of Novo Nordisk U.S., said. “We know that Costco is a trusted brand.”
As NBC News reports (via AOL), the drugs will be stocked at more than 600 Costco pharmacy locations across the nation. Members with valid prescriptions can access the medication for $499 per month. Insurance coverage, where applicable, will determine the final out-of-pocket price for some customers.
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