Research Reveals Women Have Greater Awareness and Understanding of Obesity Pharmacotherapy

Recent findings presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2025) in Malaga, Spain, highlight notable gender disparities in awareness and understanding of obesity medications, specifically GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists, including semaglutide and tirzepatide. The study, conducted by Nadja Auerbach, Voy, London, alongside Dr. Austen El-Osta from Imperial College London, surveyed over a thousand UK adults to assess knowledge levels and attitudes towards these emerging weight-loss therapies.

The research revealed that approximately 80% of participants were aware of GLP-1/GIP RAs, with women significantly more informed (87%) than men (68%). Moreover, women reported a higher level of understanding, with 20% indicating excellent knowledge compared to just 8% of men. About 35% of participants were current users of these medications, and a substantial majority (85%) had prior experience with them.

Participants prioritized safety, efficacy, and the ability to maintain weight loss when considering these treatments. Concerns about potential side effects, safety risks, and weight regain after discontinuation emerged as primary barriers for those hesitant or unwilling to initiate therapy. Interestingly, current or previous users generally viewed GLP-1/GIP RAs favorably, perceiving them as safe and effective.

The study underscores the importance of accurate public health messaging to address misconceptions circulating through social media and news outlets. As the UK prepares for the wider adoption of tirzepatide within the NHS, healthcare providers and policymakers are encouraged to improve health literacy surrounding these drugs. This will promote equitable access and empower individuals to make informed decisions in their weight management journey.

Overall, the findings suggest that while awareness is high, targeted education is essential to mitigate skepticism and enhance acceptance of these promising pharmacotherapies for obesity, which could significantly impact global health outcomes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-women-aware-good-obesity-drugs.html