SC Connecticut News

Expanding access to new weight-loss medications could potentially prevent over 40,000 deaths annually in the United States, according to a study by researchers from Yale School of Public Health and the University of Florida. The study emphasizes the need to eliminate barriers that restrict access to effective obesity treatments, which are crucial for addressing the national obesity crisis.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 74% of Americans are overweight, with 43% classified as obese. Obesity contributes significantly to health issues such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Despite these severe consequences, effective obesity treatments have been limited until recent pharmaceutical advancements introduced glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy, along with dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide and GLP-1 (GIP/GLP-1) receptor agonists such as tirzepatide.

Researchers quantified the potential mortality impact if access to these drugs were expanded. They integrated data on mortality risk across different body mass index categories and considered current drug access limitations due to high costs and insurance restrictions.

Senator Bernie Sanders has questioned Novo Nordisk CEO Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen about reducing prices for semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, referencing research from Yale School of Public Health.

The study estimates that expanding medication access could result in up to 42,027 fewer deaths annually in the U.S., including around 11,769 among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Even with current limited access conditions, an estimated 8,592 lives are saved each year primarily among those with private insurance.

High medication costs limit availability; Medicare does not cover these drugs for weight loss while Medicaid coverage varies by state. Private insurance often imposes high deductibles and copays further restricting access.

"Expanding access to these medications is not just a matter of improving treatment options but also a crucial public health intervention," said Dr. Alison P. Galvani from Yale School of Public Health.

States like West Virginia, Mississippi, and Oklahoma could benefit most from increased medication availability due to high obesity rates. However, challenges remain due to high drug prices and supply constraints.

"Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach," said Dr. Burton H. Singer from the University of Florida's Emerging Pathogens Institute.

The study adjusted estimates for income disparities showing significant potential for lives saved even after adjustments. Improved drug access could reduce healthcare costs related to obesity-related conditions enhancing quality of life for many Americans.

Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science journal this study lists Dr. Abhishek Pandey as lead author alongside postdoctoral researchers Drs Yang Ye & Chad R Wells among others involved in its authorship.