Fewer than 10% of individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, caution the global health agency as it issues its first advice on the therapies.
With over a billion individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
Based on estimates, more than two billion will be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines affirms that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with holistic and ongoing care," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key obstacles to widespread availability to the treatments that can help people shift substantial body mass, explains the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the current most favorable outlook, the supply of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for about 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, per the WHO.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to expand access, via strategies like licensing agreements.
A patent on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in several nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Patients commonly start to lose weight in the initial weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Research points to users may see weight return after a year of stopping the treatment, because their normal food cravings return.
Being overweight or obese elevates your likelihood for experiencing diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity affects people in all nations and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
