Sociodemographic, Health Care, and Clinical Factors Associated With Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Uptake Among

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Obesity prevalence among US adults is approximately 40.3%, with metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) being a safe and effective treatment.
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Despite its effectiveness, MBS uptake is low, at about 1% of eligible individuals annually, influenced by underdiagnosis and physician education.
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Disparities in MBS uptake exist based on demographic and socioeconomic factors, including race, ethnicity, and health insurance status.
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The rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists has led to increased prescriptions but a decrease in MBS uptake, highlighting a need for further research.
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This study analyzed sociodemographic and clinical factors affecting MBS uptake using insurance claims data from individuals with obesity.

Jama Network Open

by Rafeya V. Raquib, Allison Tokarski, Ishita Doshi, Mosadoluwa Afolabi, Jörg Tomaszewski, Stephen Johnston
June 16, 2026

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