GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound are becoming increasingly popular among individuals with obesity, leading to a decline in the demand for bariatric surgery. A recent study examined health records of 17 million privately insured Americans with obesity and found that as prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs doubled, rates of bariatric surgery decreased by 25.6% between 2022 and 2023.
This shift marks a significant change in trends, as bariatric surgery volumes had been steadily increasing over the past decade. However, the rise in GLP-1 drug prescriptions has led to a drop in the number of individuals opting for surgical treatments. This change has raised concerns about the future of hospitals and clinics that rely on revenue from bariatric procedures.
While some experts believe that the decrease in bariatric surgeries may be a temporary trend, others see it as a sign of the evolving landscape of obesity medicine. GLP-1 drugs are seen as a less invasive alternative to surgery, with additional benefits such as reducing heart complications and protecting against neurodegeneration. However, these medications come with a high price tag and may not be covered by insurance, unlike bariatric surgery.
Studies comparing the cost-effectiveness of GLP-1 drugs and bariatric surgery have shown conflicting results. While some research suggests that the ongoing use of these medications may surpass the cost of surgery in the long run, other studies indicate that bariatric surgery offers more significant health benefits and cost savings over time. As insurance companies grapple with how to cover both treatments, the future of obesity medicine remains uncertain.
Despite the shift towards pharmacological management of obesity, bariatric surgery continues to be a viable option for many individuals. Some patients may prefer surgery due to concerns about the long-term use of medications, side effects, or insurance coverage. The decision between surgery and medication ultimately depends on individual circumstances and treatment goals.
As the field of obesity medicine moves towards a more personalized approach, there is a growing need to address the underlying causes of obesity and tailor treatments to individual patients. While the decrease in bariatric surgery volumes raises concerns about the future of surgical programs, experts emphasize the importance of ensuring that patients have access to a range of treatment options.
Overall, the shift towards GLP-1 drugs as a primary treatment for obesity highlights the need for a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to managing this chronic disease. As the healthcare system navigates these changes, the goal remains to provide effective and accessible care to individuals with obesity, addressing both the medical and social aspects of the condition.
