Less than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy have access to them, warns the WHO as it issues its first advice on the medications.
Given over a billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Per forecasts, more than two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The latest guidance affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with comprehensive and lifelong support," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are significant obstacles to widespread availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable weight, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the current best projected case, the supply of such drugs might only reach around 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The advice calls on nations and manufacturers to increase access, via measures like licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on the active ingredient – the primary component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Work
These medications imitate a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and boost feelings of fullness so individuals reduce food intake.
Individuals usually see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Evidence indicates users may regain a significant portion within a year of discontinuing the treatment, as their normal appetite come back.
To be above a healthy weight raises your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Obesity impacts people in every country and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
