Obesity has now become the third fastest-growing health problem after heart issues and diabetes. It affects people of all ages and regions. Once considered a lifestyle problem, it is now seen as a chronic disease that needs long-term care. As per World Health Organization’s data, more than 1 billion people were living with obesity in 2024, and the condition was linked to 3.7 million deaths worldwide. Experts warn that if countries do not take urgent action now, the numbers could double by 2030.
WHO releases first guideline on GLP-1 therapies
To respond to this growing crisis, the World Health Organization has released its first guideline on the use of GLP-1 therapies for treating obesity. These medicines are already used to treat type 2 diabetes and were added to WHO’s Essential Medicines List in 2025 for high-risk diabetes management. Now, WHO is recommending them for long-term treatment of obesity as well.
The guideline explains that obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that requires ongoing care. Along with medicines, WHO stresses the need for healthier diets, physical activity and regular support from health professionals. The organisation says these therapies should be part of a wider, lifelong approach.
WHO calls for comprehensive treatment
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the new guideline aims to support countries and people who are dealing with obesity. He explained that medication can help millions of people, but it cannot solve the global obesity crisis on its own. He also noted that obesity increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and other serious illnesses. People with obesity also have a higher chance of severe outcomes when they get infectious diseases.
Beyond the health impact, obesity comes with heavy economic costs. By 2030, the global cost of obesity is expected to reach around US$ 3 trillion every year. Health systems are already struggling with rising hospital admissions and the long-term treatment of related conditions.
Two conditional recommendations in the new guidance
The new WHO guideline includes two conditional recommendations. The first states that GLP-1 therapies can be used for long-term treatment of obesity in adults, except in pregnant women. WHO says the evidence on the medicines’ benefits is strong, but more information is needed on long-term safety, the effects of stopping treatment and how different health systems can handle widespread use.
The second recommendation says that people taking GLP-1 medicines may benefit from intensive behavioural support. This includes structured diet plans and physical activity programmes. Early studies show that combining medication with guided lifestyle changes may improve outcomes.
Medicines alone not enough to reverse the crisis
Even with the success of GLP-1 medicines, WHO says that medication alone will not solve the obesity epidemic. The organisation says countries must focus on creating healthier food environments, protecting people at high risk and ensuring long-term, person-centred care. This includes strong national policies, early screening and continuous medical support.
WHO also warns that without careful planning, access to these medicines could worsen existing health inequalities. Many low- and middle-income countries may struggle to afford or distribute GLP-1 treatments.
Concerns about access and affordability
WHO estimates that even with a rapid expansion in production, fewer than 10% of the people who need GLP-1 therapies will be able to receive them by 2030. To change this, WHO is urging governments and manufacturers to consider steps like tiered pricing, pooled procurement and voluntary licensing. The goal is to ensure that people in all countries, not just wealthier ones, can access these medicines.
Health systems also need to prepare for long-term use of these therapies. Many countries still lack the infrastructure to monitor patients, prevent misuse or ensure consistent supply.
How the guideline was developed
WHO created the guideline after requests from Member States who needed clearer direction on managing obesity. The organisation reviewed available scientific evidence and consulted global experts, healthcare workers and people with lived experience. WHO says this guideline is part of its broader plan to accelerate efforts to stop obesity worldwide.
The organisation will continue updating the guidance as new research becomes available. In 2026, WHO plans to work with partners to create a fair system to ensure that people with the highest medical need are prioritised first.
GLP-1 medicines included in the guideline
The guideline recommends three GLP-1 therapies for long-term obesity treatment in adults: liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide. These medicines help lower blood sugar, support weight loss and reduce risks linked to heart and kidney problems. WHO defines adult obesity as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, and says these medicines must only be prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals.
Rising risk of fake and substandard products
As global demand for GLP-1 drugs has surged, WHO has seen more cases of falsified or substandard products entering the market. These fake medicines pose serious risks to patient safety. WHO urges countries to strengthen regulation, improve supply chain monitoring and increase public awareness to protect people from harmful or ineffective products.
The organisation says strong global cooperation is needed to ensure that GLP-1 therapies are safe, genuine and accessible to those who need them.
