Fewer than a tenth of individuals eligible to benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it publishes its initial guidance on the therapies.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be treated with comprehensive and ongoing care," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to widespread availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing substantial body mass, says the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even in the current most favorable scenario, the production of these medications would only suffice for about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, according to the WHO.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to expand availability, via measures such as patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Function
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and increase feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.
People typically begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies suggests people may see weight return a year later of halting the treatment, because their typical hunger come back.
To be carrying excess weight increases your risk for contracting medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity concerns people in all nations and was responsible for 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
