Under one in 10 individuals that would benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy can access them, caution the WHO as it issues its initial recommendations on the medications.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently obese, it is advocating for 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 guidelines acknowledges that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be managed with holistic and lifelong care," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are significant obstacles to widespread access to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing significant body mass, explains the body.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Despite the present most favorable case, the production of such drugs could only cover about 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, according to the WHO.
The guideline calls on nations and manufacturers to expand access, via measures including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is set to lapse in several countries in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Operate
These medications imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and increase satiety so individuals eat less.
Patients commonly see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies points to users may regain a significant portion a year later of discontinuing the drug, as their typical appetite return.
Being overweight or obese raises your likelihood for developing medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some cancers.
Obesity concerns individuals in every country and was associated with 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
