Under 10% of people that would benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy are able to get them, states the global health agency as it publishes its initial recommendations on the drugs.
Considering more than one billion people worldwide now living with obesity, it is advocating for increased and just access to this class of drugs.
According to estimates, over two billion will be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance affirms that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with thorough and ongoing support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are key hurdles to broad availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable body mass, notes the agency.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Despite the present most optimistic scenario, the production of these medications could only cover about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, per the WHO.
The guideline urges nations and manufacturers to increase access, via measures like licensing agreements.
A patent on semaglutide – the main component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Work
The injections replicate a biological compound to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and boost satiety so people consume fewer calories.
People usually see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Evidence suggests people may regain a significant portion within a year of discontinuing the treatment, when their usual hunger return.
To be overweight or obese increases your risk for contracting diseases, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain malignancies.
Excess weight concerns people in all nations and was associated with millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
