Fewer than a tenth of people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, warns the WHO as it releases its initial recommendations on the medications.
With over a billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
According to projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with thorough and ongoing treatment," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are key obstacles to widespread availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, notes the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even in the present most favorable case, the production of these medications might only reach approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The advice calls on governments and firms to expand availability, via approaches including patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Function
The injections mimick a body's own hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and increase feelings of fullness so individuals eat less.
Patients commonly begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies suggests users may see weight return within a year of discontinuing the medication, because their typical appetite resume.
To be carrying excess weight raises your risk for developing health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
Excess weight concerns people in every country and was associated with millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
