World Health Organization Sounds Concern Over Critical Shortage of Weight-Loss Injections

Under one in 10 individuals who could benefit from weight-loss injections like Wegovy have access to them, caution the World Health Organization as it issues its initial advice on the drugs.

Considering over a billion people worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging increased and just availability to this class of drugs.

Based on projections, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.

"Our latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be addressed with thorough and lifelong care," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are key hurdles to universal access to the jabs that can help people shift considerable weight, says the body.

Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis

Despite the present best projected case, the supply of such drugs could only cover around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, per the health organization.

The guideline calls on countries and companies to expand availability, via measures such as voluntary licensing.

A patent on a key compound – the main ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in several nations in 2026.

The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Work

GLP-1 drugs replicate a body's own hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and boost the sense of being full so individuals eat less.

People usually start to lose weight in the initial weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.

Research suggests users may see weight return within a year of stopping the drug, when their usual appetite resume.

Being carrying excess weight elevates your chance for developing medical conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.

Obesity affects people in every country and was associated with over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.