Less than 10% of people eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it issues its initial guidance on the medications.
Given over a billion people worldwide currently obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer availability to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, over two billion could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidelines acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with thorough and continuous treatment," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key barriers to broad access to the injections that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, says the organization.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even under the current best projected case, the production of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to widen access, by measures including patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Function
GLP-1 drugs imitate a biological compound to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.
People typically see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies points to people may see weight return after a year of halting the medication, because their usual appetite come back.
To be overweight or obese elevates your risk for developing diseases, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Obesity concerns people in all nations and was associated with 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
