Less than one in 10 individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it issues its initial advice on the medications.
Given more than one billion people worldwide now living with obesity, it is advocating for increased and just access to this class of drugs.
Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidelines affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with thorough and ongoing support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are significant barriers to broad availability to the jabs that can help people shift substantial weight, says the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the present most optimistic outlook, the production of these medications might only reach around 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, per the health organization.
The guideline encourages governments and firms to expand availability, via approaches like licensing agreements.
A patent on the active ingredient – the core component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Work
The injections replicate a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and enhance satiety so users consume fewer calories.
Patients usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies suggests patients may see weight return within a year of stopping the treatment, when their normal hunger resume.
To be overweight or obese elevates your risk for experiencing health problems, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
