Less than a tenth of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it publishes its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
Given over a billion people worldwide currently obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
Based on forecasts, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.
"Our latest guidance affirms that obesity is a chronic disease that can be addressed with comprehensive and ongoing care," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are major obstacles to widespread availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing significant body mass, explains the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Despite the current most favorable case, the production of these medications might only reach approximately 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, as stated by the WHO.
The guideline urges countries and companies to increase availability, through strategies such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Function
The injections imitate a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and enhance satiety so users eat less.
Individuals commonly begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies indicates patients may regain a significant portion within a year of stopping the medication, because their typical food cravings come back.
To be overweight or obese elevates your chance for experiencing medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects people in every country and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
