Under one in 10 patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy can access them, warns the global health agency as it publishes its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is advocating for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Per forecasts, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with thorough and ongoing care," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key barriers to broad availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing substantial weight, says the body.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even under the present most favorable outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies might only reach around 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, per the health organization.
The recommendation encourages nations and manufacturers to expand availability, through approaches like voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Function
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and enhance the sense of being full so people reduce food intake.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Studies indicates patients may regain a significant portion within a year of stopping the treatment, as their usual appetite resume.
To be above a healthy weight increases your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity concerns people in countries worldwide and was associated with millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
