The State of Obesity report: 2025 highlights

At Numan, we’re confronting the outdated beliefs that still surround obesity in the UK. Our 2025 State of Obesity report shows that attitudes are starting to shift, with the number of people who say obesity is a “personal choice” has fallen from 57% to 44%, and those who deny it is a disease has dropped to 29%. Yet blame and stigma still shape far too many conversations.

As a digital healthcare provider dedicated to transforming health outcomes, we’re committed to reframing this narrative. Obesity is a complex, chronic disease influenced by genetics, environment, psychology, hormones, and more - not just willpower. With GLP-1 medications entering the mainstream and public understanding evolving, it’s time to move beyond blame and individual responsibility towards a more accurate, science-led view of obesity.

The blame narrative is fading

For the first time, fewer people now see obesity as a matter of willpower alone. However, men are still more likely than women to attribute obesity to personal responsibility, and those who hold this view are significantly less likely to recognise biological or genetic influences.

Interestingly, nearly a third of people who say obesity is a choice also believe it is a disease, highlighting a growing tension between outdated beliefs and emerging science. This shift signals the need for clearer education about what truly drives obesity.

As Danielle Brightman, Clinical Director at Numan, says: “The science of obesity treatment will keep advancing, but right now, what people need most is education, professional support, and consistency. As our understanding grows, we’re finally moving toward an approach that’s more holistic and more human.”

Medical framing is gaining ground

Public perception of obesity is shifting toward a more scientific understanding. This year, fewer people reject the medical view of obesity entirely, with those denying it is a disease falling from 43% to 29%. Strong opposition has collapsed even further from 18% to 7%, while belief that obesity is a chronic condition has strengthened, particularly among people living with obesity themselves. More respondents now cite biological drivers such as metabolism, hormone imbalance, and genetics, which have doubled in recognition since 2024.

This shift is closely tied to the mainstream adoption of GLP-1 medications. Awareness and usage have increased dramatically, and the belief that using medication is “cheating” has reversed. As more people see obesity being treated medically with structured treatment programmes, coaching, and prescription-based support, the concept of obesity as a medical issue rather than a personal flaw is solidifying.

John's story: from type 2 diabetes to remission

John, a Numan patient, reached his late 50s feeling exhausted, in pain, and stuck in habits he didn’t know how to change. “I felt like I’d tried everything. I thought this was just how life would be.” Starting the Numan Weight Loss Programme changed that. He lost more than four stone, his diabetes went into remission, and he can now play the drums without pain. “It’s given me a new lease of life,” he says.

John’s journey shows that meaningful change goes far beyond weight loss. “I’m not just lighter; I’m living again,” he adds. His experience reflects what compassionate, structured support can achieve. At Numan, we help people move from feeling stuck to feeling capable, confident, and in control.

The next steps 

The 2025 State of Obesity report shows clear signs of progress. More people are beginning to recognise obesity as a medical condition rather than a personal failing. But it also highlights how much work is still needed. We’re committed to accelerating this shift by providing evidence-based guidance, safe treatment pathways, and support that helps people understand their health beyond weight alone.

The numan take 

Obesity is a chronic, complex disease influenced by biology, environment, psychology, and lifestyle, not willpower. By replacing blame with science and education, we can support people to seek help earlier, feel confident in treatment, and pursue better long-term health outcomes.