The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its inaugural guideline on the use of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) therapies in treating obesity, a condition that affects over 1 billion people globally. This guideline addresses obesity as a chronic and relapsing disease, highlighting its association with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024. Without significant intervention, the prevalence of obesity is projected to double by 2030.
In September 2025, WHO added GLP-1 therapies to its Essential Medicines List for managing type 2 diabetes among high-risk groups. The new guideline offers conditional recommendations for the use of these therapies, aiming to assist individuals living with obesity in overcoming this urgent health issue. WHO emphasizes a comprehensive approach that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and support from healthcare professionals.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated, “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 recognizes that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong care.” He underscored the role of GLP-1 therapies in aiding millions to combat obesity and mitigate its associated risks.
Understanding the Complexity of Obesity
Obesity is a multifaceted condition that significantly contributes to noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. It further complicates the outcomes for patients with infectious diseases. The economic burden of obesity is staggering, with global costs expected to reach US$ 3 trillion annually by 2030. This guideline aims to alleviate the soaring health expenses associated with managing obesity and its complications.
The WHO’s new guidance includes two essential conditional recommendations. Firstly, while GLP-1 therapies are recognized as the first effective treatment option for adults with obesity, the organization stresses that medications alone cannot resolve the issue. Secondly, obesity is not only an individual health concern but a societal challenge that necessitates a multifaceted response.
Addressing Access and Equity
The WHO highlights the urgent need for equitable access to GLP-1 therapies, alongside the preparation of health systems for their implementation. Without proactive policies, the availability of these treatments could worsen existing health disparities. The organization calls for immediate action on manufacturing, affordability, and system readiness to fulfill global demands. Despite rapid production expansion, projections indicate that fewer than 10% of those who could benefit from GLP-1 therapies will have access by 2030.
The guidelines advocate for strategies to broaden access, including pooled procurement, tiered pricing, and voluntary licensing. The WHO developed these guidelines in response to requests from its Member States, aiming to tackle the challenges posed by obesity. The development process involved thorough analysis of evidence and consultations with various stakeholders, including individuals with lived experiences.
This guideline is a pivotal component of the WHO’s acceleration plan to combat obesity and will undergo regular updates as new evidence becomes available. In 2026, WHO plans to collaborate closely with relevant stakeholders to establish a transparent and equitable prioritization framework, ensuring that those in greatest need receive support first.
