Fewer than a tenth of people that would benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its initial guidance on the drugs.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now classified as obese, it is advocating for broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
According to estimates, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with thorough and continuous care," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are significant hurdles to broad access to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, notes the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Despite the present best projected scenario, the supply of GLP-1 therapies could only cover about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the WHO.
The recommendation encourages nations and manufacturers to expand access, through measures such as patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Function
The injections mimick a body's own hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance satiety so people reduce food intake.
Individuals typically begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence indicates patients may regain a significant portion within a year of stopping the medication, as their usual appetite resume.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your risk for experiencing medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
