Under one in 10 individuals eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections like Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it publishes its inaugural guidance on the medications.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
According to forecasts, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with thorough and ongoing treatment," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are significant barriers to universal availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Despite the current best projected outlook, the production of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to expand access, via strategies such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Work
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance satiety so users reduce food intake.
People commonly see weight reduction after several weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Studies suggests people may see weight return after a year of stopping the drug, when their normal appetite return.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Obesity concerns individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
