Health authorities around the world have received a new roadmap for addressing obesity, as the World Health Organisation released its first guideline on the use of GLP-1 therapies for treating the condition.
The move arrives at a time when obesity, already affecting more than one billion people, continues to climb, straining both health systems and household wellbeing.
WHO notes that obesity has become one of the most significant contributors to poor health worldwide.
In 2024 alone, it was linked to 3.7 million deaths, and global projections show cases could double by 2030 if nothing changes.
A report from the UN health agency also highlights the financial impact, projecting global economic losses related to obesity to reach US$ 3 trillion annually within the decade.
Against this backdrop, the new guideline offers governments and medical practitioners direction on a treatment approach that has gained momentum over recent years.
Instead of relying only on the traditional line of 'healthy eating and exercise', the guidance recognises obesity as a chronic, relapsing medical condition requiring long-term care.
In addition to lifestyle measures, the document introduces two conditional recommendations for GLP-1 medicines.
One recommendation advises that adults, excluding pregnant women, may use GLP-1 therapies for extended management of obesity.
Another suggests pairing the medication with intensive behavioural support, including structured nutrition and physical activity interventions, when feasible.
As stated by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus: 'Obesity is a major global health challenge that WHO is committed to addressing by supporting countries and people worldwide to control it, effectively and equitably. Our new guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong care.'
He also cautioned that medicines alone will not resolve the crisis, adding that GLP-1 therapies 'can help millions overcome obesity and reduce its associated harms,' but broader action remains essential.
The inclusion of GLP-1 medicines in the Essential Medicines List for certain diabetes cases last year drew global attention, setting the stage for this guideline.
Many experts view the therapies as an important new option for people who struggle to lose weight or maintain weight loss through lifestyle changes alone.
However, as WHO analysts explain, the recommendations remain conditional due to limited long-term data, cost barriers, and unequal access across countries.
The agency stresses that without careful planning, access to newer medications could widen existing health inequalities.
A recurring theme throughout the guideline is that obesity cannot be solved through pharmaceuticals alone.
From WHO's perspective, the condition is both a medical and social issue, as the organisation points out that effective prevention requires three broad strategies:
In its analysis, the UN health agency adds that achieving these goals will require stronger political commitment, improved food regulation, and community-level interventions that are both affordable and sustainable.
One of the most pressing questions raised in the guideline is how many people will realistically receive GLP-1 therapies.
By current estimates, fewer than 10% of those who could benefit will have access by 2030. For that reason, WHO encourages countries and industry partners to consider options such as pooled procurement, tiered pricing, and voluntary licensing to expand supply.
The guideline was developed after requests from multiple member states seeking practical strategies for addressing obesity in their populations. It underwent extensive evidence review and included contributions from people with lived experience of obesity.
Throughout 2026, WHO plans to work with governments, health agencies, and industry groups to build a transparent framework for ensuring that those with the highest need are prioritised first.
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