WHO Endorses GLP-1 Therapies for Obesity but Flags Access Barriers

The World Health Organization has issued its first guideline recommending GLP-1 therapies as part of long-term obesity treatment, marking a significant shift in global clinical practice. With over one billion people affected worldwide, the agency aims to expand safe, evidence-based options while highlighting major challenges around affordability and equitable access.

New Conditional Recommendations for Obesity Treatment

WHO’s guidance includes two conditional recommendations: adults with obesity, excluding pregnant women, may use GLP-1 drugs for long-term management; and such therapy should be combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. The agency stresses that obesity requires lifelong, comprehensive care and that medication alone cannot reverse the global burden.

Rationale and Concerns Behind the Guidance

GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide, tirzepatide and liraglutide have shown strong clinical benefits, but uncertainties remain around long-term high-dose use and system-level capacity to deliver treatment. Experts emphasise cautious adoption owing to questions of cost, sustainability and potential strain on healthcare systems. WHO notes that fewer than 10 per cent of eligible individuals may access these therapies by 2030 under current production trends.

Equity, Affordability and Supply Challenges

Access barriers represent WHO’s principal concern. High demand, limited manufacturing capacity and premium pricing risk widening health inequalities. The agency warns that without coordinated global action, GLP-1 drugs could deepen disparities between and within nations. Expansion of production, affordability strategies and pooled procurement models—similar to mechanisms used in major public health programmes—are strongly encouraged.

Exam Oriented Facts

• WHO issued its first guideline on GLP-1 therapies for obesity in 2025.
• The recommendations cover semaglutide, tirzepatide and liraglutide.
• Eligibility focuses on adults with BMI ≥ 30, excluding pregnant women.
• Fewer than 10% of eligible people may receive GLP-1 treatment by 2030.

Broader Context and Next Steps for Member States

The guideline builds on WHO’s earlier move to add key GLP-1 medicines to the essential medicines list for diabetes in high-risk groups. In 2026, the organisation plans to work with governments to prioritise access for populations with the highest need, with obesity-related economic costs projected to reach $3 trillion annually by 2030.