Under one in 10 patients eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy have access to them, caution the WHO as it publishes its first recommendations on the therapies.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
Per estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidance affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and lifelong support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are major barriers to broad availability to the treatments that can help people shift substantial weight, notes the agency.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Even in the present most favorable case, the manufacturing of such drugs might only reach approximately 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, per the WHO.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to expand availability, via measures like voluntary licensing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the main component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Work
The injections mimick a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so people consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually begin shedding pounds in the initial weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies indicates people may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the medication, as their normal food cravings come back.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects people in every country and was associated with 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
