Less than a tenth of people who could benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy are able to get them, warns the global health agency as it releases its first advice on the medications.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with holistic and ongoing care," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are major barriers to widespread availability to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing substantial weight, explains the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the current best projected outlook, the supply of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the health organization.
The advice encourages governments and firms to expand availability, by measures such as licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on a key compound – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in several nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, suppress the appetite and increase satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients usually see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies suggests people may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the drug, when their usual food cravings resume.
Being above a healthy weight increases your risk for developing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in all nations and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
