Fewer than a tenth of patients who could benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy can access them, warns the WHO as it releases its initial advice on the drugs.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide currently obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
Per projections, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidelines affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with holistic and continuous care," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are key barriers to universal availability to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, says the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even in the current most optimistic outlook, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to expand availability, through strategies including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the core component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Function
The injections mimick a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals commonly start to lose weight within a few weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies points to users may see weight return within a year of discontinuing the medication, because their typical food cravings return.
Being carrying excess weight raises your chance for contracting diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in every country and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
