Fewer than one in 10 individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it publishes its first guidance on the drugs.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently obese, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer availability to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The latest guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be managed with comprehensive and ongoing support," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key barriers to broad access to the treatments that can help people shift substantial weight, says the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the production of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, according to the WHO.
The advice encourages countries and companies to expand access, via approaches like voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Function
GLP-1 drugs mimick a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and boost feelings of fullness so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients commonly begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Research points to patients may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the medication, when their usual hunger return.
To be carrying excess weight increases your chance for contracting health problems, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Obesity concerns individuals in countries worldwide and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
