World Obesity Day 2025: A Step Toward a Healthier Future
World Obesity Day is an annual observance that highlights the global obesity epidemic. It’s also about raising awareness about causes, impacts, and solutions. This year’s World Obesity Day, observed on March 4, comes at a time of both optimism and urgency. The United States is experiencing a small but promising decline in obesity rates. Signaling a significant shift in the fight against obesity. Recent studies show that the national obesity rate decreased from 46% in 2022 to 45.6% in 2023 (ABC News). While this reduction may seem small, it represents a positive change in a complex public health crisis that has impacted millions of lives.
At Ivím Health, we are proud to be part of this movement, celebrating progress while also acknowledging the work that remains. With the increasing availability of effective obesity treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like compounded semaglutide (or brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®) and compounded tirzepatide (known by brand names Zepbound® and Mounjaro®), many individuals are achieving significant weight loss and improving their health.
What Is World Obesity Day?
World Obesity Day is more than just a day for awareness; it’s a global call to action. The day aims to raise awareness about the obesity epidemic that affects millions worldwide.Obesity is a medical condition and it comes with many serious health risks such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. In many parts of the world, including the United States, obesity rates have reached alarming levels. World Obesity Day helps to frame obesity not as a personal failure but as a condition that requires comprehensive medical attention.
The goal of World Obesity Day is multifaceted. It aims to reduce the stigma surrounding obesity, provide educational resources, and advocate for better treatments and public health policies. This day also encourages dialogue about how society can take meaningful steps to provide obesity solutions and make effective treatments more accessible to those in need.
When Is World Obesity Day?
World Obesity Day is observed annually on March 4. This date serves as an important opportunity for global leaders, healthcare professionals, and individuals to come together to promote healthier lifestyles, raise awareness about obesity solutions, and push for changes in healthcare systems. These changes can provide better access to care for individuals with obesity.
This observance also offers a time for reflection on the progress made in combating obesity. It also shows the work that still needs to be done. As healthcare advances and new medications emerge, we can begin to see tangible shifts in obesity rates in the United States and around the world.
Obesity Rates in the United States: A Positive Trend
One of the most encouraging developments leading up to World Obesity Day 2025 is the recent decline in obesity rates in the United States. After over a decade of steady increases, the obesity rate in the U.S. fell from 46% in 2022 to 45.6% in 2023 (U.S. News). While this reduction might seem small, it represents a turning point and a promising sign that efforts to combat obesity are beginning to yield positive results.
There are many reasons behind this shift, but one of the most significant contributing factors is the growing adoption of medical weight loss programs that utilize GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (known by brand names Zepbound® and Mounjaro®). These treatments have helped many individuals achieve significant and sustainable weight loss. Studies show that GLP-1 medications are effective at regulating appetite and improving metabolic health, providing an essential tool in the fight against obesity.
How Obesity Treatments Are Helping
Obesity is a complex disease that requires more than just willpower to manage. In the past, many people struggling with obesity were left with few treatment options. Fortunately, this has changed with the introduction of advanced obesity treatments, particularly GLP-1 medications.
Semaglutide is sold under the brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®. This is a medication that has revolutionized the way we approach obesity treatment. It works by regulating hormones that control hunger, satiety and blood sugar, leading to improved weight management. Another medication, tirzepatide (sold as Mounjaro® and Zepbound), works at the GLP-1 as well as another receptor to achieve weight loss results.
At Ivím Health, we provide patients with access to the latest evidence-based obesity treatments to help them achieve and sustain their health goals. Our medical weight loss programs offer a combination of GLP-1 therapies, personalized care, and support from healthcare professionals who help guide individuals throughout their weight loss journey. These therapies, when combined with behavioral changes and lifestyle modifications, can produce life-changing results.
Tackling Stigma and Raising Awareness
A crucial part of World Obesity Day is addressing the stigma surrounding obesity. Ivím Health reduces stigma by providing educational resources and fostering open discussions about obesity. We believe that obesity education is essential to shifting public perception. Obesity is a medical condition that can be successfully managed with the right treatment as well as a support system of friends, family and community.
Additionally, patient advocacy in healthcare plays a key role in overcoming stigma. We actively engage in advocacy efforts to ensure that obesity treatments are accessible to everyone. By educating policymakers and healthcare professionals about the need for accessible treatments, we are pushing for systemic changes that will benefit patients across the country.
The Role of Patient Advocacy
Patient advocacy in healthcare is integral to addressing obesity on a societal level. Ivím Health advocates for greater GLP-1 access in treatment and works to reduce barriers to care. We work closely with policymakers, healthcare organizations, and the public to promote policies that prioritize patient needs and ensure that those who need treatment for obesity can access it without financial or logistical barriers.
In addition to advocacy, we believe in empowering patients to take an active role in their health. We include personalized support and tailor medical weight loss membership programs to individual needs. By supporting our patients every step of the way, we help them navigate the challenges of obesity treatment and provide the tools and resources they need to succeed.
How You Can Help Move the Needle
While World Obesity Day is a time for collective action, individual engagement is also crucial. Here are a few ways you can contribute to the movement:
- Engage in Your Health Journey: Take an active role in managing your health by attending regular appointments, adhering to prescribed treatments, and staying in close contact with your healthcare team. If you’re struggling with obesity, don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
- Join the Weight Loss Community: Participate in Ivím Health’s membership community with online live events and support groups. These gatherings provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences. While also learning about obesity solutions, and gain valuable insights into weight loss.
- Share Your Story: If you’ve found success with GLP-1 therapy or other treatments, share your story with others. Your experiences can inspire others to seek help and pursue their health goals. Share how Ivím Health’s programs have made a difference in your life.
- Advocate for Change: Advocate for patient advocacy in healthcare by supporting policies that expand access to obesity treatments. Speak up for those who are struggling with obesity. By pushing for changes that will improve the healthcare system’s approach to obesity care.
Moving Toward a Healthier Future
We celebrate World Obesity Day 2025 by recognizing the progress made in addressing the obesity crisis. The reduction in obesity rates in the United States is a sign that we are moving in the right direction. With the support of advanced obesity treatments, patient advocacy, and continued education, we are confident that we can further reduce obesity rates and improve the health and well-being of individuals worldwide.
At Ivím Health, we remain committed to providing personalized care and evidence-based treatments for obesity. Together, we can continue to break down barriers, raise awareness, and work toward a healthier, more equitable future for all.
Sources:
- ABC News. “U.S. Obesity Rates Drop for 1st Time in Decade, Weight Loss Drugs Part of the Solution.” ABC News, 10 Jan. 2023, abcnews.go.com/GMA/Wellness/us-obesity-rates-drop-1st-time-decade-weight/story?id=116736017.
- World Obesity Day. “World Obesity Federation, www.worldobesity.org/what-we-do/world-obesity-day.
- Stanglin, Doug. “U.S. Adult Obesity Rate Fell in 2023 as Use of GLP-1 Meds Rose.” U.S. News & World Report, 13 Dec. 2024, www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-12-13/u-s-adult-obesity-rate-fell-in-2023-as-use-of-glp-1-meds-rose.
Compounded medications may be prescribed based on personal weight loss needs. While federal law allows the prescription of compounded drugs, they are not FDA-approved and do not undergo safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing review. Please see additional safety information here.
- Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk. Ivím Health has no affiliation with Novo Nordisk.
- Zepbound® and Mounjaro® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly. Ivím Health has no affiliation with Eli Lilly.