GLP-1 Receptor Agonists May Address Dual Burden of Obesity and Heavy Drinking: JAMA
USA: A cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative data found that about 9% (nearly 1 in 10) of U.S. adults in 2023 had both obesity and heavy alcohol consumption. The prevalence of this dual burden was influenced by factors such as age and insurance status. Researchers also suggested that GLP-1 receptor agonists may offer a promising therapeutic approach, as they have the potential to address both obesity and alcohol use disorder simultaneously.
The findings, published as a Research Letter in JAMA Internal Medicine by Bryant Shuey and colleagues from the University of Pittsburgh, highlight the growing overlap between two major preventable risk factors—excess body weight and unhealthy alcohol use—both of which contribute to increasing rates of liver disease and mortality.
For this purpose, the researchers analysed data from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which included 45,133 respondents representing approximately 257.5 million U.S. adults. Obesity was defined as a body mass index of 30 or higher, while heavy drinking was classified using standard criteria based on weekly or daily alcohol intake. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) was identified using established diagnostic guidelines.
The following were the key findings of the study:
- 9.0% of adults had both obesity and heavy drinking, while 3.8% had coexisting obesity and alcohol use disorder.
- The burden of overlapping conditions varied across population groups.
- Among men, the highest prevalence of combined obesity and heavy drinking was in those aged 35–49 years (13.6%).
- Among women, the highest prevalence was in those aged 26–34 years (11.9%).
- Overlapping obesity and AUD were most common in adults aged 26–34 years in both sexes.
- Non-Hispanic Black adults showed the highest prevalence of combined obesity and heavy drinking.
- Asian individuals had the lowest prevalence of these overlapping conditions.
- Uninsured individuals and those covered by Medicaid or CHIP had higher rates of coexisting obesity and AUD.
- Higher income levels were associated with increased prevalence of heavy drinking with obesity, but not with AUD.
The authors emphasised that this high-risk population requires targeted public health and clinical interventions, particularly among younger and middle-aged adults. Expanding access to evidence-based treatments, including behavioural therapies and pharmacological options, is critical. They also highlighted the emerging role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are already used for weight management and metabolic conditions. Early evidence suggests these agents may also help reduce alcohol consumption, raising the possibility of a dual-benefit therapy.
However, the study has certain limitations. The reliance on self-reported data may have led to an underestimation of alcohol use and potential misclassification. Additionally, body mass index may not equally reflect metabolic risk across different racial and ethnic groups.
Overall, the findings highlight the need for integrated strategies to address both obesity and unhealthy alcohol use, as their combined impact continues to drive the burden of liver disease and related complications.
Reference:
Shuey B, Anderson TS, Wharam JF, et al. Heavy Drinking, Alcohol Use Disorder, and Obesity. JAMA Intern Med. Published online April 20, 2026. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2026.0428
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