Under 10% of patients who could benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy are able to get them, caution the World Health Organization as it releases its initial advice on the drugs.
With more than one billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging broader and more equitable availability to GLP-1 medication.
Based on projections, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and ongoing care," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are major barriers to widespread availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, explains the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even in the present most favorable case, the supply of GLP-1 therapies could only cover approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to increase access, by approaches such as voluntary licensing.
The intellectual property rights on semaglutide – the main component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Function
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
People usually see weight reduction in the initial weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Studies points to patients may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the treatment, when their normal hunger resume.
To be above a healthy weight raises your chance for experiencing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Excess weight concerns individuals in every country and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
