Fewer than a tenth of patients that would benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it releases its inaugural advice on the drugs.
With over a billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is urging increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidelines recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with holistic and lifelong treatment," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing significant body mass, notes the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even in the current most optimistic outlook, the supply of these medications would only suffice for about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of the global need, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation urges nations and manufacturers to increase access, through approaches such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the primary ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Operate
The injections mimick a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Individuals typically start to lose weight after several weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Evidence indicates people may regain a significant portion a year later of stopping the medication, as their normal food cravings return.
To be overweight or obese elevates your likelihood for developing diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some malignancies.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
