Less than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, caution the World Health Organization as it releases its initial advice on the therapies.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now obese, it is calling for increased and just availability to these injectable treatments.
According to forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The latest guidelines affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with thorough and continuous treatment," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to broad availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing considerable weight, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Even under the present best projected scenario, the production of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for around 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, according to the WHO.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to expand access, via approaches such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Operate
The injections mimick a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost feelings of fullness so users consume fewer calories.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction after several weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates people may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the medication, as their typical appetite return.
Being above a healthy weight raises your likelihood for developing diseases, like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in every country and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
