Fewer than 10% of individuals eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy can access them, caution the WHO as it publishes its first recommendations on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.
Per estimates, over two billion will be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with holistic and continuous support," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key obstacles to universal availability to the treatments that can help people shift considerable weight, explains the organization.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Despite the present most optimistic outlook, the supply of such drugs might only reach around 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to increase access, via strategies including patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Operate
The injections replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and enhance satiety so individuals consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies suggests users may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the treatment, as their usual hunger come back.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for experiencing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Excess weight impacts individuals in all nations and was linked to over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
