Fewer than a tenth of people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy can access them, caution the WHO as it publishes its initial guidance on the medications.
Given over a billion people worldwide currently obese, it is urging broader and more equitable availability to these injectable treatments.
According to estimates, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.
"Our latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with thorough and ongoing treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are major barriers to widespread access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing considerable body mass, says the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the current most favorable case, the manufacturing of such drugs might only reach about 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to increase access, through approaches including patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in a number of nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so people consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually see weight reduction in the initial weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates users may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the drug, because their typical appetite come back.
Being carrying excess weight raises your risk for experiencing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity concerns people in every country and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
