Under one in 10 people eligible to benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy can access them, states the WHO as it publishes its first recommendations on the drugs.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Based on projections, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be treated with thorough and ongoing support," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and logistical bottlenecks are significant barriers to universal access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing substantial body mass, says the body.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Even in the present most optimistic case, the production of these medications would only suffice for around 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The recommendation encourages governments and firms to increase availability, by approaches such as patent sharing.
A patent on semaglutide – the main ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is set to lapse in several countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Function
The injections imitate a biological compound to slow digestion, curb appetite and increase feelings of fullness so individuals consume fewer calories.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the regular doses.
Studies suggests patients may see weight return after a year of discontinuing the medication, because their normal food cravings resume.
Being above a healthy weight raises your risk for contracting diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity impacts people in countries worldwide and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
