Less than a tenth of individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy are able to get them, warns the World Health Organization as it releases its initial guidance on the therapies.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is calling for more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.
Per projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with holistic and ongoing care," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are key hurdles to widespread access to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, says the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Despite the present most favorable scenario, the manufacturing of such drugs might only reach around 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, according to the health organization.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to expand access, via measures including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, suppress the appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals reduce food intake.
Individuals typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Evidence indicates people may see weight return a year later of halting the treatment, as their typical appetite return.
Being overweight or obese elevates your risk for experiencing diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Obesity affects people in countries worldwide and was linked to over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
