Fewer than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, states the global health agency as it publishes its initial advice on the drugs.
With over a billion individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just availability to this class of drugs.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and continuous treatment," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are key barriers to widespread availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, says the agency.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Despite the current most optimistic scenario, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, per the WHO.
The guideline encourages nations and manufacturers to expand availability, through approaches including voluntary licensing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Function
These medications replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.
Individuals commonly begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates people may put most of the weight back on after a year of halting the treatment, as their usual food cravings come back.
Being overweight or obese elevates your likelihood for contracting health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in all nations and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
