Under one in 10 people that would benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy are able to get them, warns the global health agency as it publishes its inaugural advice on the therapies.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently obese, it is urging increased and just availability to this class of drugs.
Based on estimates, more than two billion could be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"Our new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with thorough and continuous care," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to widespread availability to the jabs that can help people shift substantial weight, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even under the present best projected outlook, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies could only cover approximately 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the WHO.
The recommendation calls on nations and manufacturers to increase access, by approaches including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main component of a leading brand – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Operate
These medications replicate a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and boost feelings of fullness so users consume fewer calories.
Individuals typically begin shedding pounds in the initial weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies suggests users may see weight return after a year of halting the drug, when their typical hunger come back.
Being overweight or obese raises your risk for contracting diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Excess weight concerns people in countries worldwide and was linked to millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
