Under a tenth of people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, caution the global health agency as it releases its initial advice on the medications.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now classified as obese, it is advocating for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
According to estimates, more than two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong treatment," remarked 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, explains the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even in the present most favorable case, the supply of these medications could only cover approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to expand availability, through approaches like licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Function
These medications imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and boost satiety so individuals consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Research indicates people may see weight return a year later of discontinuing the treatment, as their typical hunger resume.
Being carrying excess weight raises your risk for experiencing medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some malignancies.
Excess weight affects individuals in every country and was responsible for 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
