WHO Raises Concern Over Critical Shortage of Obesity Jabs
Fewer than a tenth of patients who could benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its first advice on the medications.
Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is advocating for increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
According to projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our new guidance acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be treated with holistic and ongoing support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are significant hurdles to broad access to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing significant body mass, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the current most favorable scenario, the supply of these medications would only suffice for around 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, per the health organization.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to expand access, via strategies like patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the core component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Jabs Work
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and increase the sense of being full so individuals consume fewer calories.
People usually begin shedding pounds after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Evidence suggests patients may put most of the weight back on within a year of discontinuing the treatment, as their usual food cravings resume.
Being carrying excess weight raises your chance for experiencing medical conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in every country and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
