WHO has released its first guideline on GLP-1 weight-loss medicines, declaring obesity a chronic disease and warning that without deliberate policies the treatments could deepen global health inequalities.
The World Health Organisation has issued its first guideline on GLP-1 weight-loss medicines such as liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide, marking a major shift in global health policy as obesity affects over one billion people worldwide.
WHO described obesity as “a chronic disease that can be treated with comprehensive and lifelong care,” with Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus warning that “medication alone won’t solve this global health crisis.” The organisation stressed that obesity is driven by genetics, biology, environment and social factors, and recommended long-term GLP-1 use for adults with obesity—except during pregnancy—while noting high costs, limited long-term data and the risk of worsening inequality. Demand already far exceeds supply, and WHO cautioned that without strong policies, access gaps will widen, urging governments to adopt measures like pooled procurement and fair pricing to ensure equitable treatment.