Under a tenth of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, states the global health agency as it publishes its first guidance on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide now obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
Based on projections, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidelines affirms that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with thorough and ongoing care," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are significant obstacles to broad availability to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, explains the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even in the present most favorable outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies could only cover approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, according to the WHO.
The guideline urges governments and firms to widen availability, through measures like voluntary licensing.
A patent on semaglutide – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in several nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance satiety so users consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence indicates patients may put most of the weight back on after a year of discontinuing the medication, when their usual appetite come back.
Being overweight or obese increases your chance for contracting medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
