Fewer than 10% of individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it releases its initial guidance on the therapies.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer access to this class of drugs.
Per projections, more than two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The latest guidance affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and lifelong treatment," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are major obstacles to broad availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, explains the body.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even under the current most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies could only cover around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The advice encourages nations and manufacturers to widen availability, via strategies including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Jabs Function
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, reduce hunger and enhance satiety so users reduce food intake.
Individuals usually start to lose weight in the initial weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates users may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the drug, when their typical appetite resume.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
