Under 10% of individuals that would benefit from obesity jabs such as Wegovy can access them, caution the global health agency as it issues its initial advice on the medications.
With over a billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just access to these injectable treatments.
Based on estimates, over two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.
"Our new guidance recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with holistic and continuous support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are key hurdles to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, explains the organization.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even in the present best projected outlook, the supply of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, per the health organization.
The advice calls on governments and firms to increase access, by strategies such as patent sharing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Function
The injections imitate a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase satiety so individuals eat less.
Patients typically see weight reduction in the initial weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies suggests people may put most of the weight back on after a year of halting the drug, as their typical appetite come back.
To be overweight or obese raises your chance for experiencing diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight concerns individuals in every country and was responsible for 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
