Under one in 10 people eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it publishes its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"Our latest guidelines recognises that obesity is a long-term condition that can be treated with thorough and ongoing treatment," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to broad access to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing substantial body mass, says the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies might only reach approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, per the health organization.
The recommendation urges countries and companies to increase access, via approaches including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Function
GLP-1 drugs mimick a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.
Patients typically begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence indicates patients may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the drug, because their normal hunger come back.
To be carrying excess weight raises your chance for experiencing health problems, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight concerns people in every country and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
