Less than 10% of individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, caution the global health agency as it publishes its initial recommendations on the therapies.
With more than one billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be managed with holistic and lifelong care," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are significant obstacles to broad access to the jabs that can help people shift significant body mass, notes the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the WHO.
The advice calls on nations and manufacturers to expand availability, via approaches like patent sharing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the primary component of a leading brand – is set to lapse in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence suggests users may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the treatment, when their usual hunger return.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for developing health problems, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Excess weight concerns individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
