Under one in 10 individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, caution the WHO as it issues its inaugural advice on the medications.
Considering over a billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is calling for increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Based on forecasts, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with thorough and continuous treatment," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to widespread access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing considerable weight, notes the organization.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even under the present best projected scenario, the production of these medications could only cover about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The recommendation encourages nations and manufacturers to widen availability, via measures such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in multiple nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Work
These medications mimick a biological compound to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so individuals eat less.
People usually begin shedding pounds in the initial weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Research indicates users may put most of the weight back on within a year of discontinuing the treatment, when their typical food cravings resume.
To be carrying excess weight raises your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Obesity concerns people in all nations and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
