Under one in 10 patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it publishes its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
Considering over a billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging increased and just access to this class of drugs.
Per projections, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidelines recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong treatment," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to broad access to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, says the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Despite the current most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of these medications would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to widen access, by measures like voluntary licensing.
The intellectual property rights on semaglutide – the main component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in several nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
The injections imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals eat less.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies indicates people may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the drug, because their typical hunger return.
To be overweight or obese raises your chance for contracting medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Excess weight affects people in countries worldwide and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.