Less than one in 10 patients that would benefit from weight-loss injections such as Wegovy are able to get them, caution the World Health Organization as it issues its inaugural recommendations on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is advocating for broader and more equitable availability to these injectable treatments.
Per forecasts, over two billion could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be addressed with holistic and continuous care," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are key obstacles to universal access to the jabs that can help people shift substantial weight, says the agency.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the manufacturing of these medications would only suffice for around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The guideline urges countries and companies to increase availability, via approaches such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the core ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
These medications replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance the sense of being full so individuals reduce food intake.
Individuals usually see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Studies indicates people may see weight return within a year of discontinuing the drug, as their usual appetite return.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your likelihood for experiencing diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific cancers.
Excess weight affects people in every country and was associated with over three and a half million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
