Fewer than 10% of individuals that would benefit from obesity jabs such as Wegovy can access them, caution the global health agency as it publishes its initial advice on the drugs.
With over a billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is advocating for increased and just availability to this class of drugs.
According to projections, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with thorough and ongoing support," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are major barriers to universal availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable weight, explains the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even in the current most favorable outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies might only reach about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to increase availability, through approaches such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several nations in 2026.
How Obesity Drugs Function
The injections replicate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Individuals commonly start to lose weight within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies suggests people may see weight return within a year of halting the medication, as their normal hunger come back.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your chance for experiencing health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Obesity impacts individuals in all nations and was linked to millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
