WHO Raises Alert Over Severe Lack of Obesity Jabs

Under 10% of patients that would benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy can access them, states the World Health Organization as it releases its first guidance on the medications.

Considering over a billion individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.

Per estimates, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.

"Our latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong treatment," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are major barriers to universal access to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, explains the organization.

Weight-Loss Drug Shortage

Even under the present most optimistic scenario, the production of such drugs could only cover about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, per the WHO.

The recommendation urges governments and firms to expand access, via measures like licensing agreements.

A patent on a key compound – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is set to lapse in multiple nations in 2026.

How Obesity Injections Function

GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost feelings of fullness so people eat less.

Individuals commonly start to lose weight within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.

Evidence suggests people may see weight return within a year of stopping the medication, when their normal hunger resume.

To be carrying excess weight increases your chance for contracting diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.

Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was associated with millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.