World Health Organization Sounds Warning Over Critical Lack of Obesity Jabs

Less than a tenth of patients who could benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy have access to them, states the World Health Organization as it issues its first guidance on the therapies.

Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to these injectable treatments.

Based on forecasts, over two billion will be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.

"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be managed with thorough and lifelong support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key obstacles to widespread availability to the treatments that can assist patients in reducing considerable body mass, says the agency.

GLP-1 Therapy Shortage

Even under the present most optimistic scenario, the production of these medications could only cover about 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.

The advice calls on nations and manufacturers to increase availability, via strategies like voluntary licensing.

Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.

The Way Obesity Drugs Work

These medications replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and enhance feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.

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

Evidence points to patients may see weight return within a year of discontinuing the medication, when their typical hunger come back.

Being overweight or obese increases your risk for contracting diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and certain cancers.

Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.