World Health Organization Sounds Warning Over Critical Lack of Obesity Medications

Less than one in 10 people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, warns the WHO as it publishes its inaugural advice on the therapies.

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

Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.

"Our latest guidelines affirms that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and continuous treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key obstacles to widespread access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing considerable body mass, says the organization.

GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis

Even in the current best projected case, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.

The advice calls on governments and firms to widen availability, via approaches like voluntary licensing.

A patent on the active ingredient – the core component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in a number of nations in 2026.

How Obesity Drugs Operate

GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and enhance the sense of being full so individuals consume fewer calories.

People typically begin shedding pounds within a few weeks of commencing the regular doses.

Evidence indicates users may regain a significant portion a year later of halting the medication, when their usual food cravings resume.

To be overweight or obese elevates your risk for experiencing medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some malignancies.

Obesity affects individuals in all nations and was associated with millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.