Fewer than one in 10 people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, warns the World Health Organization as it issues its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
With over a billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging increased and just access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on projections, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to universal access to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing significant body mass, says the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Scarcity
Even under the present most optimistic outlook, the production of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to increase access, by measures like patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the core ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in several countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
The injections mimick a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so people eat less.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies suggests people may regain a significant portion a year later of stopping the drug, as their typical hunger come back.
To be overweight or obese increases your chance for experiencing health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in countries worldwide and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
