Less than a tenth of people who could benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy can access them, warns the global health agency as it releases its inaugural recommendations on the drugs.
Considering over a billion individuals worldwide now obese, it is urging broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
According to estimates, over two billion are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be treated with thorough and continuous support," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major barriers to broad access to the injections that can help people shift considerable weight, notes the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Despite the present most favorable outlook, the production of such drugs could only cover approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, as stated by the WHO.
The guideline urges governments and firms to widen availability, through approaches like voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Function
The injections imitate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and increase satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients typically see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence points to patients may see weight return within a year of stopping the medication, as their usual food cravings come back.
To be overweight or obese raises your chance for developing health problems, like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Excess weight affects people in every country and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
