A new study found: treatment of obesity leads to a decrease in cardiac morbidity

GLP-1 receptor analogs mimic hormones that stimulate insulin production, promote satiety and reduce appetite. In the past, the drug gained great popularity as an effective drug for the treatment of diabetes and was shown to decrease an average of over 14% of body weight in weight loss treatment.Now, a new study that was published at the American Society of Heart Health’s convention as well as in The New England Journal of Medicine, shed light on a breakthrough approach in the management of cardiovascular health in people with obesity but without diabetes and addressed the question of whether the drug would also reduce cardiac events in them.

The researchers conducted a thorough trial that included over 17,000 patients over the age of 45 with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher (average 33), who had existing cardiovascular disease but no history of diabetes. These participants were divided into two groups, with one receiving semaglutide and the other a placebo.

The findings were significant and showed that during an average follow-up of almost 40 months, 6.5% of participants in the treatment group experienced significant cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes, compared to 8% in the placebo group. This 20% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease demonstrated the effectiveness of the treatment intended for obesity in reducing such risks. Furthermore, the treatment resulted in a significant weight loss (9.4% in the patients compared to 0.88% in the placebo) and a decrease in waist circumference, which further shows the metabolic benefits of using the drug.

according to Avi Karsik, director of the obesity clinic at the DMC center for the treatment of diabetes, obesity and endocrinology: “These findings have a far-reaching impact. Obesity, which affects a significant part of the world’s population, is a critical factor in cardiovascular diseases. This study highlights the potential of the treatment in dealing with cardiovascular risks in a significant segment of the population that was not previously the focus of such treatments. The results held Regardless of participants’ initial BMI, suggesting that the drug’s benefits may extend beyond weight loss alone.”

“In essence, this study marks a significant step in the fight against cardiovascular disease, especially among those struggling with obesity. It opens a new therapeutic avenue, offering hope beyond traditional lifestyle interventions and bariatric surgery. However, it also brings to the fore the need for an approach Equity for such treatments and a continued focus on preventive strategies against obesity.”