Less than 10% of patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, caution the global health agency as it issues its first guidance on the therapies.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is urging broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
Per forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with thorough and ongoing care," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are major hurdles to broad access to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, notes the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Despite the current best projected outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies could only cover around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to widen availability, via strategies including licensing agreements.
A patent on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is set to lapse in a number of countries in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Work
These medications imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and increase the sense of being full so users consume fewer calories.
Individuals typically see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Studies suggests people may see weight return a year later of halting the drug, because their usual food cravings come back.
To be overweight or obese increases your chance for experiencing health problems, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects people in all nations and was responsible for 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
