Fewer than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy have access to them, caution the global health agency as it publishes its first guidance on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging increased and just availability to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and continuous care," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are significant hurdles to widespread availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable weight, explains the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Even under the current best projected case, the supply of such drugs might only reach around 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to expand access, by strategies like voluntary licensing.
A patent on a key compound – the core ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Function
GLP-1 drugs imitate a biological compound to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so people reduce food intake.
People commonly start to lose weight within a few weeks of starting on the once-weekly jabs.
Studies suggests patients may see weight return after a year of discontinuing the treatment, as their typical hunger return.
To be overweight or obese increases your chance for experiencing diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects people in all nations and was responsible for 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
