Less than one in 10 patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it releases its first guidance on the medications.
With over a billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
According to forecasts, more than two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance affirms that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with thorough and ongoing care," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are significant obstacles to broad availability to the jabs that can help people shift significant body mass, explains the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Despite the present most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of these medications could only cover approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, according to the health organization.
The advice encourages governments and firms to increase access, via approaches including licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Operate
These medications replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so users consume fewer calories.
Patients usually see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies indicates patients may regain a significant portion a year later of discontinuing the treatment, as their normal food cravings return.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk for experiencing medical conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Excess weight concerns people in every country and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
