Less than 10% of individuals that would benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy have access to them, warns the WHO as it publishes its inaugural guidance on the drugs.
Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, more than two billion could be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidelines affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with comprehensive and continuous support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to widespread access to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, says the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the present most favorable scenario, the production of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to widen availability, through measures like licensing agreements.
A patent on a key compound – the primary component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Operate
These medications replicate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
People usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Studies suggests people may regain a significant portion after a year of stopping the medication, because their typical hunger come back.
Being overweight or obese elevates your risk for contracting health problems, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in all nations and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
