Under 10% of people who could benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its initial recommendations on the drugs.
Considering over a billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is advocating for increased and just availability to these injectable treatments.
According to projections, more than two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with comprehensive and ongoing support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are key barriers to widespread access to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing considerable body mass, explains the organization.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even in the present most optimistic outlook, the supply of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation calls on governments and firms to increase access, by measures like patent sharing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and increase satiety so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Evidence suggests users may put most of the weight back on after a year of halting the drug, because their normal appetite return.
To be overweight or obese raises your likelihood for experiencing health problems, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was associated with over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
