Less than 10% of people that would benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy are able to get them, warns the World Health Organization as it issues its first advice on the medications.
With more than one billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging broader and more equitable availability to these injectable treatments.
Per forecasts, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidelines affirms that obesity is a long-term condition that can be treated with thorough and lifelong support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are key obstacles to universal access to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, notes the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the present most favorable outlook, the supply of such drugs could only cover around 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline urges governments and firms to increase access, by strategies such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary component of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
How Obesity Drugs Work
The injections mimick a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals eat less.
Patients commonly see weight reduction in the initial weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies suggests people may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the drug, as their typical appetite return.
Being carrying excess weight raises your risk for developing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects people in countries worldwide and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
