Fewer than 10% of individuals eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it issues its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with thorough and lifelong support," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are significant hurdles to widespread availability to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, notes the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the current most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies could only cover about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The guideline urges countries and companies to widen access, via strategies like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the primary component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.
Patients typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Research points to people may regain a significant portion after a year of stopping the drug, as their normal appetite return.
To be overweight or obese raises your likelihood for experiencing health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was associated with millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
