Fewer than a tenth of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, caution the WHO as it releases its first recommendations on the medications.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to this class of drugs.
Per projections, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance acknowledges that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be treated with comprehensive and continuous care," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are key obstacles to widespread availability to the jabs that can help people shift significant weight, explains the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the current most favorable case, the manufacturing of such drugs could only cover around 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the WHO.
The guideline urges governments and firms to expand availability, via strategies including patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the core component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Work
The injections replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, reduce hunger and enhance feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Individuals typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Evidence suggests patients may see weight return a year later of stopping the drug, as their usual appetite return.
To be overweight or obese increases your chance for developing medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in every country and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
