Less than one in 10 people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it issues its initial advice on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to these injectable treatments.
Per projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with holistic and ongoing care," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing considerable weight, notes the organization.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Even in the present best projected outlook, the manufacturing of such drugs could only cover about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The recommendation calls on nations and manufacturers to expand access, by approaches including voluntary licensing.
The intellectual property rights on the active ingredient – the primary component of the drug Wegovy – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
GLP-1 drugs imitate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Individuals usually begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Evidence points to people may see weight return after a year of stopping the treatment, when their usual food cravings return.
To be overweight or obese increases your likelihood for developing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific malignancies.
Obesity affects people in every country and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
