Less than one in 10 individuals eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections like Wegovy have access to them, caution the WHO as it issues its inaugural advice on the drugs.
Given over a billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is advocating for increased and just access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on estimates, more than two billion are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with holistic and ongoing treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are major barriers to universal access to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing substantial weight, says the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Despite the current best projected case, the supply of these medications would only suffice for around 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.
The recommendation calls on nations and manufacturers to expand access, through strategies such as patent sharing.
A patent on semaglutide – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Function
The injections imitate a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so people consume fewer calories.
Individuals typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies suggests patients may regain a significant portion a year later of stopping the medication, because their typical appetite return.
To be carrying excess weight raises your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
