Under one in 10 individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy are able to get them, states the global health agency as it releases its first guidance on the medications.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is urging increased and just availability to this class of drugs.
Per estimates, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with holistic and continuous treatment," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are significant obstacles to widespread access to the injections that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the present most favorable outlook, the production of such drugs would only suffice for about 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline encourages governments and firms to widen availability, through measures such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Function
These medications mimick a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and enhance satiety so individuals consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Studies suggests users may put most of the weight back on after a year of stopping the treatment, as their usual food cravings resume.
Being carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific cancers.
Excess weight impacts individuals in all nations and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
