Less than one in 10 people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, caution the WHO as it issues its inaugural guidance on the drugs.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
Based on projections, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance affirms that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with holistic and ongoing treatment," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are significant barriers to widespread access to the treatments that can help people shift considerable weight, explains the agency.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Despite the current most favorable case, the manufacturing of these medications might only reach approximately 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, per the health organization.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to widen availability, via approaches like patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
These medications mimick a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and increase feelings of fullness so people reduce food intake.
Individuals commonly begin shedding pounds after several weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Studies indicates patients may see weight return after a year of discontinuing the medication, as their typical appetite resume.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk for developing diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
