THE BROAD VIEW

The economics of women’s weight

A new study suggests weight-loss drugs help women find work – and prompt men to leave their partners

    • As more women take GLP-1 drugs, the size of the obesity penalty could change too.
    • As more women take GLP-1 drugs, the size of the obesity penalty could change too. PHOTO: FREEPIK
    Published Fri, Jul 3, 2026 · 11:59 AM

    “HERE are some things I do now in a bikini that I would not have done at 30: one, wear it; two, eat in it; three, sit down in it.”

    So said comedian Riona O’Connor in a recent viral video, who then slapped her tummy with a grin, adding: “Throw it on you, nobody cares.”

    A joyful and empowering message to other women: Weight consciousness is in our heads. I so wanted to believe it. But depressingly, new evidence suggests otherwise.