Diagnoses of diabetes among U.S. adults have reached an alarming high of **13.8 percent**, according to findings from **Gallup**. This figure marks the highest level recorded by the **Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index**. Interestingly, this surge in diabetes cases occurs alongside a **statistically meaningful decrease** in the adult obesity rate, which has dropped to **37 percent** in 2025. This decline translates to approximately **7.6 million fewer obese adults** compared to three years ago.
Obesity and Diabetes: A Complex Relationship
While obesity is commonly associated with higher diabetes rates across all age groups, the relationship is not straightforward. According to **Gallup**, not every individual with obesity will develop diabetes, nor will every individual without obesity be free from the disease. Other risk factors contributing to diabetes include **physical inactivity**, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and genetic predispositions.
The results presented by Gallup are drawn from combined data from three nationally representative surveys involving **16,946 U.S. adults**, who were interviewed online during the first three quarters of **2025**. For clarity, Gallup defines obesity using the federal standard, which classifies individuals with a **Body Mass Index (BMI)** of **30 or higher** as obese. The reported diabetes rate includes both **Type 1** and **Type 2 diabetes**.
Trends in Diabetes Treatment
The report also highlights a notable increase in the use of **Type 2 antidiabetic GLP-1 drugs** for weight management. The proportion of adults utilizing this class of medications rose to **12.4 percent** in 2025, up from **5.8 percent** in **February 2024**. These medications include **semaglutide**, marketed under the brand names **Ozempic** and **Wegovy**.
Among various demographics, adults aged **40 to 49** and **50 to 64** experienced the most significant reduction in obesity rates. These age groups also show the highest usage of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. Despite the decrease in obesity, **Gallup** notes that obesity rates remain concerningly high. In **2008**, the obesity rate among U.S. adults was recorded at **25.5 percent**, a stark contrast to the current **37 percent**.
U.S. obesity rates continue to surpass those of many other Western nations, as highlighted in a map compiled by **Newsweek** in **2024**.
In a statement on social media, Gallup remarked, “After peaking at a record high of **39.9 percent** in **2022**, the U.S. adult obesity rate has gradually declined to **37.0 percent** in **2025**. This is a statistically meaningful decrease representing an estimated **7.6 million fewer obese adults** compared with three years ago.”
Global Context and Health Implications
The implications of rising diabetes rates are significant. According to the **World Health Organization**, approximately **830 million people** worldwide have diabetes, with the majority residing in low- and middle-income countries. Alarmingly, more than half of those living with diabetes are not receiving appropriate treatment. The rise in both diabetes prevalence and untreated cases has been a consistent trend over recent decades.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, addressing the growing diabetes crisis remains a priority for public health officials. Understanding the complexities surrounding obesity and diabetes is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
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