Less than 10% of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it publishes its inaugural guidance on the drugs.
Considering over a billion people worldwide currently obese, it is advocating for broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"Our new guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are significant obstacles to universal access to the jabs that can help people shift substantial body mass, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Despite the current most favorable scenario, the manufacturing of such drugs could only cover approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, per the health organization.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to increase availability, by strategies like patent sharing.
A patent on a key compound – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Work
The injections replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so people consume fewer calories.
Patients commonly begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Evidence indicates patients may see weight return a year later of stopping the treatment, as their usual hunger come back.
Being overweight or obese raises your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity concerns individuals in every country and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
