Fewer than a tenth of people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, caution the WHO as it publishes its inaugural advice on the medications.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now obese, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are significant barriers to broad availability to the injections that can help people shift considerable body mass, explains the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Even under the present most optimistic outlook, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The recommendation calls on governments and firms to increase availability, by measures such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Work
The injections imitate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and enhance satiety so users consume fewer calories.
People commonly start to lose weight in the initial weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Research suggests people may put most of the weight back on a year later of halting the medication, when their usual hunger resume.
To be overweight or obese elevates your chance for developing medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects people in countries worldwide and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
