World Health Organization Sounds Concern Over Acute Lack of Obesity Injections
Under a tenth of patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, caution the global health agency as it publishes its first recommendations on the therapies.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide currently obese, it is urging increased and just availability to these injectable treatments.
Based on forecasts, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidance affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with thorough and ongoing support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to widespread access to the jabs that can help people shift considerable body mass, says the agency.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Despite the current best projected case, the production of such drugs might only reach around 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The recommendation calls on governments and firms to widen availability, by approaches like voluntary licensing.
A patent on a key compound – the core component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
How Obesity Injections Work
The injections replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, curb appetite and boost feelings of fullness so people eat less.
Individuals commonly begin shedding pounds after several weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Studies points to people may put most of the weight back on after a year of halting the drug, when their usual appetite come back.
To be above a healthy weight elevates your risk for contracting diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some cancers.
Obesity affects individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
