Fewer than a tenth of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it releases its first guidance on the medications.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide now obese, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer access to this class of drugs.
According to estimates, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be managed with comprehensive and ongoing support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are significant hurdles to widespread access to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, notes the agency.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the production of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The advice urges governments and firms to expand availability, through measures such as voluntary licensing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the main component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Work
GLP-1 drugs replicate a body's own hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients typically begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of starting on the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates patients may see weight return after a year of halting the treatment, as their normal appetite resume.
To be carrying excess weight increases your risk for contracting diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight concerns individuals in all nations and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
