JAMA Netw Open

Weight loss linked to significant healthcare savings

December 9, 2024

Study design: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey-Household Component, including 17,209 adults with employer-sponsored insurance and/or Medicare. The study aimed to estimate healthcare spending reductions associated with various levels of BMI reduction.

Results: A 5% reduction in BMI was associated with an 8% decrease in healthcare spending for adults with employer-sponsored insurance and a 7% decrease for Medicare beneficiaries. A 25% reduction in BMI resulted in a 34% decrease in spending for those with employer-sponsored insurance and a 31% decrease for Medicare beneficiaries.

Impact on clinical practice: These findings underscore the economic benefits of weight loss interventions, suggesting that significant healthcare savings can be achieved through effective weight management strategies.

Source:

Thorpe KE, et al. (2024, December 2). JAMA Netw Open. Estimated Reduction in Health Care Spending Associated With Weight Loss in Adults. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39636635/