WHO Raises Alert Over Severe Scarcity of Obesity Injections
Less than one in 10 individuals who could benefit from obesity jabs including Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it releases its initial advice on the medications.
With over a billion people worldwide currently living with obesity, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
Based on forecasts, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidelines recognises that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be managed with thorough and continuous support," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and distribution challenges are major hurdles to universal access to the injections that can aid individuals in losing substantial weight, says the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even in the current best projected case, the supply of these medications could only cover about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The recommendation encourages countries and companies to increase availability, through strategies such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the core ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in a number of countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Jabs Operate
The injections replicate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and enhance satiety so people consume fewer calories.
Individuals commonly see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Evidence indicates people may see weight return after a year of stopping the medication, as their typical hunger return.
To be carrying excess weight raises your chance for contracting diseases, like diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and some cancers.
Obesity impacts people in countries worldwide and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
