Under one in 10 patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy are able to get them, caution the global health agency as it publishes its first guidance on the drugs.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to these injectable treatments.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidance affirms that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and continuous care," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are major obstacles to widespread availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, says the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the current most favorable case, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The recommendation encourages nations and manufacturers to expand availability, through strategies including voluntary licensing.
A patent on semaglutide – the core component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Jabs Work
The injections imitate a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and increase satiety so users consume fewer calories.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction in the initial weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies indicates people may regain a significant portion a year later of discontinuing the medication, when their normal appetite resume.
Being overweight or obese raises your chance for contracting health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was linked to over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
