Fewer than 10% of individuals that would benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy have access to them, states the World Health Organization as it publishes its initial advice on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
According to estimates, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with thorough and continuous support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to broad access to the injections that can help people shift considerable body mass, explains the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the present most favorable scenario, the supply of such drugs could only cover about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The guideline urges countries and companies to widen availability, through measures such as licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on a key compound – the main component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and enhance the sense of being full so individuals reduce food intake.
People usually see weight reduction after several weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Research suggests people may see weight return a year later of discontinuing the medication, because their normal food cravings return.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for contracting health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in all nations and was associated with millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
