WHO Issues Warning Over Critical Lack of Weight-Loss Jabs
Less than 10% of individuals who could benefit from obesity jabs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the World Health Organization as it releases its inaugural guidance on the drugs.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Per forecasts, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidelines recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be managed with holistic and ongoing support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key barriers to broad availability to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, says the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even in the current most optimistic scenario, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies might only reach approximately 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.
The recommendation calls on governments and firms to increase availability, via measures including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary component of a leading brand – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
The injections replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and enhance the sense of being full so users reduce food intake.
Patients usually start to lose weight within a few weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Studies suggests users may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the medication, when their typical hunger resume.
Being carrying excess weight elevates your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects people in countries worldwide and was linked to over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
