WHO Issues Warning Over Critical Shortage of Weight-Loss Injections
Fewer than one in 10 patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, states the global health agency as it publishes its first guidance on the drugs.
Considering over a billion people worldwide currently obese, it is calling for increased and just access to this class of drugs.
Based on forecasts, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with holistic and continuous support," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to broad availability to the treatments that can help people shift significant weight, explains the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the current most favorable scenario, the production of these medications would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation urges governments and firms to expand access, by strategies including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Function
These medications replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and enhance feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals typically see weight reduction after several weeks of starting on the once-weekly jabs.
Research points to patients may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the medication, as their usual food cravings resume.
Being carrying excess weight raises your likelihood for experiencing health problems, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in every country and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.
