Under a tenth of patients who could benefit from obesity jabs such as Wegovy have access to them, warns the World Health Organization as it issues its first recommendations on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
According to estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with thorough and lifelong support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are significant hurdles to broad access to the jabs that can help people shift considerable weight, notes the organization.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the present most optimistic case, the manufacturing of such drugs might only reach approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to expand availability, via measures like licensing agreements.
A patent on the active ingredient – the primary ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Work
These medications replicate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence indicates patients may regain a significant portion after a year of halting the medication, when their normal hunger return.
Being carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for developing medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity affects people in countries worldwide and was responsible for 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
