WHO Raises Concern Over Severe Lack of Obesity Injections

Fewer than 10% of individuals who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, caution the global health agency as it releases its first advice on the therapies.

Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging increased and just availability to this class of drugs.

Per projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.

"Our new guidelines affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be addressed with comprehensive and ongoing support," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to broad access to the injections that can help people shift substantial body mass, notes the body.

Skinny Jab Shortage

Even in the present most favorable outlook, the production of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, as stated by the health organization.

The recommendation urges governments and firms to expand availability, via approaches such as patent sharing.

Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the core ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.

The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate

The injections replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost satiety so users reduce food intake.

Patients typically start to lose weight within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.

Research suggests patients may put most of the weight back on a year later of halting the drug, because their normal food cravings resume.

To be above a healthy weight raises your risk for experiencing health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.

Excess weight impacts individuals in all nations and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.