Less than a tenth of patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, warns the WHO as it issues its first recommendations on the medications.
Considering over a billion individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with holistic and ongoing care," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are significant barriers to widespread availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, says the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the present most optimistic case, the production of such drugs might only reach approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The advice calls on countries and companies to increase access, through approaches such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so people eat less.
Patients typically see weight reduction after several weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Studies points to patients may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the drug, when their typical food cravings resume.
Being carrying excess weight elevates your likelihood for contracting diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Obesity impacts people in every country and was associated with millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
