What's Happening?
A recent study presented at the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting reveals that bariatric surgery results in significantly greater weight loss compared
to GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide. Conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health and NYC Health + Hospitals, the study analyzed real-world data from patients with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35. The findings indicate that after two years, patients who underwent bariatric procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass lost an average of 58 pounds, compared to an average of 12 pounds lost by those on GLP-1 medications. The study highlights a substantial gap in weight loss outcomes between surgical and non-surgical approaches, with surgery proving to be about five times more effective.
Why It's Important?
The study's findings are significant as they challenge the effectiveness of popular weight loss medications in real-world settings, suggesting that bariatric surgery may offer a more reliable solution for long-term weight management. This has implications for healthcare providers and patients in making informed decisions about weight loss strategies. With obesity rates in the U.S. at 40.3% and severe obesity at 9.4%, effective treatments are crucial for reducing associated health risks such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The study also raises questions about the sustainability and adherence to GLP-1 therapies, as many patients discontinue use within a year due to side effects or costs.
What's Next?
Future research will focus on optimizing GLP-1 outcomes and identifying which patients benefit more from surgery versus medication. The study's authors plan to explore the role of healthcare providers in improving treatment adherence and the impact of out-of-pocket costs on patient success. As the demand for effective weight loss solutions grows, these findings may influence healthcare policies and insurance coverage for bariatric procedures, potentially increasing their accessibility to a broader population.
