Fewer than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, caution the World Health Organization as it releases its initial advice on the medications.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging increased and just availability to GLP-1 medication.
Per projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with thorough and ongoing support," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to broad access to the injections that can aid individuals in losing considerable body mass, says the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Despite the current most favorable outlook, the supply of GLP-1 therapies could only cover about 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, according to the WHO.
The guideline encourages countries and companies to increase availability, through measures like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is set to lapse in several countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
The injections mimick a biological compound to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so people reduce food intake.
Individuals typically see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Evidence suggests users may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the medication, because their usual hunger return.
To be overweight or obese elevates your chance for experiencing health problems, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Excess weight impacts individuals in all nations and was responsible for 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
