Less than one in 10 people that would benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it issues its first guidance on the therapies.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is advocating for increased and just availability to these injectable treatments.
Per projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidance recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with holistic and lifelong care," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to broad access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing considerable weight, notes the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Despite the current most optimistic outlook, the production of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, per the health organization.
The guideline urges nations and manufacturers to expand access, via approaches like voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in multiple countries in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Operate
These medications mimick a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and boost feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies points to people may regain a significant portion after a year of stopping the treatment, because their normal hunger resume.
To be carrying excess weight raises your risk for developing health problems, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was linked to millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
