Less than one in 10 patients eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy are able to get them, warns the World Health Organization as it publishes its initial advice on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer access to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, over two billion are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with thorough and lifelong support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to universal availability to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing substantial weight, notes the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current best projected case, the production of GLP-1 therapies could only cover around 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The guideline calls on nations and manufacturers to expand availability, through strategies such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Function
These medications mimick a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost satiety so users eat less.
People commonly begin shedding pounds in the initial weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies indicates people may see weight return after a year of stopping the medication, as their typical appetite come back.
Being carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity concerns individuals in every country and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
