Under 10% of individuals who could benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy are able to get them, caution the WHO as it publishes its initial guidance on the therapies.
With over a billion individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging increased and just access to GLP-1 medication.
According to estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance affirms that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with holistic and ongoing support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are major hurdles to universal access to the jabs that can help people shift significant weight, notes the body.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even under the current best projected case, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies could only cover around 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline urges governments and firms to increase access, through approaches including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
These medications replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so individuals reduce food intake.
People usually see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Studies indicates users may see weight return within a year of halting the drug, as their typical appetite come back.
Being above a healthy weight elevates your risk for developing diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
