Less than a tenth of individuals eligible to benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy have access to them, caution the WHO as it issues its first guidance on the medications.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.
According to estimates, over two billion will be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"Our latest guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be addressed with comprehensive and ongoing support," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are key barriers to widespread access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, says the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current best projected outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for around 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation calls on governments and firms to expand access, via measures like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Function
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually see weight reduction after several weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies points to people may put most of the weight back on after a year of halting the drug, as their normal hunger resume.
Being overweight or obese elevates your chance for contracting diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
