Less than 10% of individuals that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, states the World Health Organization as it publishes its initial advice on the medications.
With over a billion people worldwide currently obese, it is advocating for increased and just availability to these injectable treatments.
According to forecasts, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance affirms that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and continuous treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are key barriers to widespread availability to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing significant body mass, says the organization.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even in the present most favorable outlook, the supply of GLP-1 therapies might only reach about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to expand access, via strategies including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core component of the drug Wegovy – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Work
The injections replicate a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so users eat less.
People commonly see weight reduction in the initial weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Research suggests users may put most of the weight back on after a year of stopping the medication, when their typical appetite return.
To be carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for experiencing diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects people in countries worldwide and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
