Fewer than a tenth of people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its initial recommendations on the drugs.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
Per forecasts, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with comprehensive and continuous support," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are significant hurdles to broad availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, explains the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the current most favorable scenario, the production of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The guideline calls on countries and companies to expand access, via measures including patent sharing.
A patent on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Function
These medications imitate a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and increase feelings of fullness so people reduce food intake.
Individuals typically begin shedding pounds after several weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Studies indicates people may see weight return a year later of discontinuing the treatment, because their usual hunger come back.
Being above a healthy weight increases your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Obesity impacts individuals in all nations and was linked to over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
