Less than 10% of patients eligible to benefit from obesity jabs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the World Health Organization as it issues its first recommendations on the drugs.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer access to these injectable treatments.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with comprehensive and continuous support," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are key obstacles to widespread access to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, says the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the present most optimistic scenario, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The advice urges nations and manufacturers to expand access, via approaches such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the primary component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and increase feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Patients usually start to lose weight after several weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies suggests people may see weight return within a year of halting the drug, when their typical food cravings come back.
To be overweight or obese elevates your risk for developing diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity impacts individuals in countries worldwide and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
