Fewer than a tenth of people that would benefit from weight-loss injections like Wegovy can access them, caution the WHO as it issues its initial guidance on the therapies.
With more than one billion people worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging increased and just access to this class of drugs.
Based on forecasts, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"Our latest guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be managed with holistic and lifelong support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to universal access to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, notes the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Even in the present best projected outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, per the WHO.
The guideline calls on countries and companies to increase availability, via measures including patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Work
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so users consume fewer calories.
Patients typically see weight reduction after several weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Studies suggests patients may see weight return a year later of halting the medication, because their typical appetite resume.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your risk for contracting medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
