Under one in 10 patients who could benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy can access them, warns the global health agency as it releases its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is urging increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Per forecasts, over two billion could be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The new guidelines acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with thorough and continuous support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to universal access to the injections that can help people shift significant body mass, notes the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even in the present most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of these medications would only suffice for about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, per the health organization.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to increase access, through measures including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in several nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Jabs Work
GLP-1 drugs mimick a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so users consume fewer calories.
Individuals typically begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates users may see weight return after a year of halting the treatment, because their typical appetite resume.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your chance for contracting diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Excess weight concerns people in every country and was associated with over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
