Fewer than one in 10 people eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it issues its initial advice on the medications.
With more than one billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Per estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with thorough and ongoing treatment," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are key hurdles to broad access to the injections that can help people shift substantial weight, says the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even in the present most optimistic case, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies might only reach around 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The guideline urges nations and manufacturers to increase access, via measures such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the core ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to slow digestion, curb appetite and increase satiety so users eat less.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies indicates people may put most of the weight back on a year later of halting the drug, as their normal appetite come back.
To be carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for developing diseases, like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in all nations and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
