Less than one in 10 patients that would benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its inaugural guidance on the medications.
With more than one billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer availability to GLP-1 medication.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with holistic and lifelong support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are significant barriers to widespread availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, notes the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the current most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, per the health organization.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to expand availability, through approaches like voluntary licensing.
The intellectual property rights on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several nations in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Function
These medications replicate a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase the sense of being full so users consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Studies indicates people may see weight return within a year of stopping the treatment, because their typical appetite come back.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your risk for contracting diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
