The Global Health Body Raises Warning Over Critical Lack of Obesity Injections
Under 10% of patients eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy are able to get them, states the global health agency as it issues its inaugural guidance on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.
Per forecasts, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with comprehensive and continuous treatment," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are significant obstacles to universal availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing considerable body mass, notes the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even in the current most favorable outlook, the supply of these medications might only reach around 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The recommendation calls on nations and manufacturers to increase access, via measures like licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on a key compound – the core component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Work
The injections imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and boost satiety so users consume fewer calories.
Patients typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Research indicates patients may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the drug, when their usual food cravings resume.
To be carrying excess weight raises your chance for experiencing diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in every country and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.