Fewer than a tenth of people that would benefit from weight-loss injections like Wegovy have access to them, warns the global health agency as it releases its first advice on the drugs.
Considering over a billion individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging increased and just access to this class of drugs.
According to forecasts, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance affirms that obesity is a chronic disease that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are major barriers to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing significant body mass, notes the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Even under the present most favorable outlook, the manufacturing of these medications could only cover around 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the WHO.
The guideline urges countries and companies to increase availability, through strategies like licensing agreements.
A patent on a key compound – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Work
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and increase the sense of being full so users reduce food intake.
Patients typically see weight reduction after several weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Research suggests patients may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the drug, because their usual hunger resume.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your risk for contracting medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in countries worldwide and was linked to millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
