World Health Organization Issues Alert Over Severe Lack of Obesity Injections
Less than one in 10 individuals eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it releases its inaugural advice on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is calling for increased and just access to this class of drugs.
According to estimates, over two billion are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The latest guidance acknowledges that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be treated with comprehensive and continuous treatment," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are significant barriers to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, says the agency.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to widen availability, by approaches such as patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Work
The injections mimick a biological compound to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost satiety so individuals consume fewer calories.
Patients usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence indicates people may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the medication, when their usual hunger return.
To be overweight or obese increases your risk for contracting diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain malignancies.
Obesity concerns individuals in every country and was associated with 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
