Fewer than a tenth of individuals that would benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it releases its inaugural guidance on the therapies.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be managed with thorough and ongoing treatment," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are major barriers to widespread availability to the treatments that can aid individuals in losing considerable body mass, says the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the present most optimistic scenario, the supply of such drugs might only reach around 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, per the health organization.
The guideline urges countries and companies to expand access, by measures such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so people consume fewer calories.
Patients commonly begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Studies indicates people may regain a significant portion a year later of discontinuing the treatment, as their usual appetite return.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your likelihood for experiencing health problems, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in every country and was associated with 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
