Under one in 10 people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its first guidance on the therapies.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer access to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with holistic and ongoing support," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are major barriers to universal access to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing considerable body mass, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even under the present best projected case, the production of these medications could only cover about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to widen access, via strategies including voluntary licensing.
The intellectual property rights on semaglutide – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Function
The injections replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so people reduce food intake.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence points to patients may see weight return after a year of halting the drug, when their usual appetite come back.
To be carrying excess weight raises your risk for developing diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity concerns people in countries worldwide and was linked to millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
