Fewer than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, warns the global health agency as it releases its first guidance on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just availability to this class of drugs.
According to forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with holistic and ongoing support," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to universal availability to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, says the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the present best projected scenario, the supply of GLP-1 therapies might only reach approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, according to the WHO.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to increase access, through strategies including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Work
GLP-1 drugs mimick a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients usually see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies indicates people may see weight return within a year of stopping the medication, because their normal appetite return.
To be above a healthy weight raises your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity impacts people in every country and was responsible for 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
