Under 10% of people eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy are able to get them, caution the global health agency as it releases its inaugural recommendations on the drugs.
Considering over a billion people worldwide now living with obesity, it is advocating for broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
According to projections, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with thorough and ongoing treatment," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key obstacles to universal availability to the injections that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, says the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even in the current most optimistic outlook, the production of these medications might only reach around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, per the WHO.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to widen availability, via measures such as voluntary licensing.
A patent on a key compound – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs mimick a body's own hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and boost satiety so people reduce food intake.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Studies indicates users may regain a significant portion within a year of discontinuing the drug, as their normal hunger resume.
Being overweight or obese increases your likelihood for experiencing health problems, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects people in countries worldwide and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
