Under a tenth of individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy have access to them, warns the global health agency as it releases its first recommendations on the medications.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with thorough and continuous care," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are key barriers to universal availability to the treatments that can help people shift considerable weight, says the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even in the present best projected scenario, the supply of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to expand access, through approaches like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the core ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is set to lapse in several nations in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Function
The injections mimick a body's own hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and increase feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
Patients typically start to lose weight within a few weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Research points to patients may put most of the weight back on within a year of discontinuing the treatment, as their usual appetite return.
To be overweight or obese elevates your likelihood for contracting diseases, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in all nations and was linked to millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
