Under a tenth of individuals eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, states the global health agency as it publishes its first guidance on the drugs.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently obese, it is urging increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Per estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.
"Our latest guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be managed with holistic and ongoing treatment," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are key barriers to widespread access to the injections that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, says the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current most optimistic case, the production of these medications would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation encourages governments and firms to widen access, through measures like voluntary licensing.
A patent on a key compound – the primary ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Work
The injections replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and increase satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients usually begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Research suggests people may see weight return a year later of discontinuing the medication, when their usual food cravings resume.
Being overweight or obese increases your risk for experiencing health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was linked to millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
