12% of Americans have tried GLP-1s; a strong resistance to child-focused health policy changes under RFK Jr.; most people agree hospitals shouldn’t sell fast food – Morning Medical Update

12% of Americans have tried GLP-1 weight loss drugs

A new RAND report reveals that nearly 12% of U.S. adults have used GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic for weight loss, with usage peaking among women aged 50 to 64. Based on a national survey of 8,793 people, the study also found that 14% are interested in trying the medications, while 74% say they are not.

Roughly half of GLP-1 users reported nausea, and one-third experienced diarrhea — both common side effects. Since 2020, GLP-1 prescriptions have more than tripled, reflecting growing demand for the drugs that have reshaped obesity care.

Americans push back on child-focused health policy changes

A new Emory University poll finds most Americans — regardless of political affiliation — oppose recent federal changes to programs supporting child health. Cuts to newborn safety and monitoring initiatives like PRAMS and “Safe to Sleep” were especially unpopular, while nearly half of respondents said recent vaccine policy moves under Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have lowered their trust in the government. Respondents prioritized concerns about lead and heavy metals in drinking water and largely supported restricting junk food purchases under SNAP.

Most people say fast food has no place in hospitals

A new national poll found that most Americans believe hospitals should not sell or profit from fast food, with 85% agreeing that it doesn’t promote health. Opposition was strongest among Asian Americans, Northeastern residents and those with higher incomes.

The survey, conducted by Morning Consult and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, echoes long-standing American Medical Association (AMA) policy urging hospitals to replace processed meats with plant-based meals. Research cited in the report links consumption of fried food and poultry to increased mortality, reinforcing calls for healthier hospital menus. Read more in The American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC).