Fewer than a tenth of people eligible to benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy can access them, warns the WHO as it releases its initial recommendations on the drugs.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on projections, more than two billion could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and ongoing treatment," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are key barriers to universal availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing considerable weight, says the body.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Despite the present most favorable case, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the WHO.
The recommendation urges countries and companies to increase access, by measures such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary component of a leading brand – is due to expire in several nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Function
The injections replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and increase feelings of fullness so individuals eat less.
People usually start to lose weight after several weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.
Studies indicates people may regain a significant portion within a year of stopping the drug, as their typical food cravings resume.
Being overweight or obese elevates your chance for contracting diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
