Fewer than a tenth of patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it releases its initial recommendations on the therapies.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Per estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and ongoing care," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are key hurdles to broad availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, says the body.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even under the current best projected outlook, the production of such drugs could only cover about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The advice encourages nations and manufacturers to widen availability, through measures like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Function
GLP-1 drugs mimick a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and boost satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
People usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies suggests people may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the drug, when their typical hunger return.
Being carrying excess weight elevates your risk for developing health problems, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Obesity affects people in all nations and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
