A recent study suggests that GLP-1-related weight loss may improve some women’s relationships and employment status. The study, conducted by Harvard University professor Rebecca Diamond, found an association between weight-loss medications and a change in women’s social and economic outcomes.
Methodology
Diamond used the Understanding America Study, a panel survey from the University of Southern California, to compare women who started GLP-1s for weight loss to those who wanted to start but had not yet done so. The comparison considered body mass, health, income, employment, partnership status, and well-being before treatment.
The study focused on women because they are more likely to use GLP-1s than men. It excluded people taking GLP-1 drugs for diabetes, as their use is driven by a medical condition rather than weight-loss demand. Women who successfully lost weight with GLP-1 medications experienced changes across several life outcomes, including employment, marriage, and cohabitation, according to the study.
Findings
Marriage and cohabitation rose 29% for single women after about 18 months. Among women who were not employed at the start of the study, job prospects increased by 27% after the same amount of time. Those who were already employed did not display any clear upward progress in their careers, however.
Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight-loss specialist, commented on these findings, stating that the effects showed up during ‘new match’ situations, such as job interviews or dating, and not within existing jobs or relationships. This suggests that societal bias may play a role in the outcomes.
Dr. Krishna Vyas, a plastic surgeon, also noted that many patients seek breast lifts or body contouring after significant GLP-1 weight loss, after which they find themselves “re-engaging with life.” However, the study showed no clear improvement in depression, loneliness, or life satisfaction, even as marriage and employment rates climbed dramatically.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
