Surge in Weight Loss Drug Usage Across America: Serena Williams Opens Up

In a revealing interview on NBC’s “TODAY” show, Serena Williams shared her struggles with maintaining a healthy weight, stating, “I just couldn’t get my weight to where I needed to be at a healthy place and believe me, I don’t take shortcuts.” With 31 pounds shed since initiating GLP-1 treatments in 2023, she has partnered with telehealth provider Ro to destigmatize such medications. Demand for these drugs is escalating across the United States. A recent Gallup survey indicates that 6% of U.S. adults, approximately 15.5 million, have utilized injectable diabetes medications for weight management. The Kaiser Family Foundation revealed that 12% of adults have used GLP-1 drugs, with notable usage among those with health conditions. While 64% of users deemed the injections effective, cost remains a significant hurdle. The price range for these medications varies from $936 to $1,349 monthly before insurance, underscoring the financial barriers many face.