Under one in 10 individuals that would benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy have access to them, warns the global health agency as it publishes its first advice on the drugs.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide now obese, it is urging more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.
According to forecasts, over two billion are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with holistic and ongoing support," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to universal access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, explains the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Despite the current most favorable outlook, the manufacturing of these medications might only reach approximately 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, per the WHO.
The guideline encourages nations and manufacturers to expand access, through strategies including voluntary licensing.
A patent on semaglutide – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Operate
These medications imitate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so people eat less.
Patients typically see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence indicates patients may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the medication, when their usual appetite come back.
Being overweight or obese raises your risk for developing medical conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
