Less than a tenth of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, caution the WHO as it publishes its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.
According to estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with comprehensive and ongoing support," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major barriers to widespread access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing considerable weight, explains the agency.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Despite the present best projected outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.
The advice urges nations and manufacturers to expand access, by strategies such as licensing agreements.
A patent on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Obesity Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a body's own hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction after several weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Research points to people may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the medication, when their typical appetite resume.
Being above a healthy weight increases your risk for contracting medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Excess weight concerns people in all nations and was linked to over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
