WHO Sounds Alert Over Severe Lack of Weight-Loss Medications
Fewer than a tenth of patients eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy can access them, caution the global health agency as it issues its first recommendations on the medications.
With over a billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with comprehensive and ongoing support," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are major barriers to widespread access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, notes the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Despite the present most optimistic scenario, the manufacturing of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The advice calls on nations and manufacturers to increase availability, via approaches including voluntary licensing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the primary component of a leading brand – is set to lapse in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Function
These medications replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and increase satiety so users reduce food intake.
Individuals typically begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies points to users may regain a significant portion a year later of discontinuing the medication, as their typical food cravings resume.
Being carrying excess weight raises your risk for contracting health problems, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was responsible for 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
