Less than one in 10 individuals that would benefit from obesity jabs like Wegovy are able to get them, caution the WHO as it publishes its inaugural advice on the drugs.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
According to forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 could be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a long-term condition that can be treated with holistic and continuous treatment," remarked WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are significant barriers to widespread availability to the treatments that can help people shift substantial weight, says the agency.
Skinny Jab Scarcity
Even in the current best projected scenario, the supply of these medications would only suffice for about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The recommendation urges governments and firms to increase availability, via measures such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the core ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Injections Function
The injections replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, reduce hunger and increase satiety so users consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually see weight reduction after several weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence suggests people may put most of the weight back on within a year of discontinuing the treatment, when their typical food cravings resume.
Being overweight or obese raises your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight affects people in countries worldwide and was associated with over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
