Under 10% of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, warns the WHO as it publishes its inaugural recommendations on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on projections, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with thorough and lifelong care," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are key barriers to widespread access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing significant body mass, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Even in the current best projected outlook, the production of these medications might only reach approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The advice calls on governments and firms to expand availability, through measures such as voluntary licensing.
A patent on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Operate
These medications replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals reduce food intake.
Individuals usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence suggests people may put most of the weight back on after a year of discontinuing the medication, when their typical food cravings come back.
To be carrying excess weight raises your chance for developing health problems, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects people in every country and was linked to 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
