Under 10% of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it issues its first recommendations on the medications.
With more than one billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is urging broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with holistic and continuous care," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are major hurdles to universal access to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, explains the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of such drugs would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline calls on nations and manufacturers to widen access, via measures like patent sharing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Operate
The injections imitate a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, suppress the appetite and boost the sense of being full so individuals consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence points to users may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the drug, as their typical appetite resume.
Being overweight or obese raises your chance for developing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
