WHO Endorses GLP1 Therapies as Global Obesity Surpasses One Billion People
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
The World Health Organization has released its first guideline on the use of GLP1 therapies for obesity, marking a notable shift in global policy. Previous WHO recommendations focused mainly on behavioral interventions centered on healthy eating and physical activity. The new guidance recognizes obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease that requires long term, integrated care supported by health systems, communities and clinicians.
More than one billion people worldwide are living with obesity. The condition was linked to an estimated 3.7 million deaths from noncommunicable diseases in 2024, with projections indicating that global prevalence may double by 2030. WHO also reports that economic costs could reach 3 trillion dollars each year by the end of the decade.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director General, underscored the scale of the challenge. “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 said. “While medication alone will not solve this global health crisis, GLP1 therapies can help millions overcome obesity and reduce its associated harms.”
The guideline introduces two conditional recommendations. Adults with obesity, excluding those who are pregnant, may be offered GLP1 therapies for long term management. WHO notes that evidence shows improvement in weight and metabolic outcomes, although long term data on safety, maintenance and discontinuation remain limited. The second recommendation supports pairing medication with intensive behavioral interventions that include structured nutrition plans, regular physical activity and ongoing coaching. Early evidence indicates that this combination may support better outcomes.
The document reinforces that GLP1 therapies are only one part of a broader approach. WHO identifies three essential pillars. These include creating healthier environments through population level policies, providing early intervention and targeted support for individuals at high risk, and ensuring access to person centred care throughout the course of the disease.
Equity is a central theme in the guideline. WHO warns that without deliberate planning and manufacturing expansion, GLP1 therapies may reach fewer than ten percent of people who could benefit by 2030. The organization encourages strategies such as tiered pricing, pooled procurement and voluntary licensing to support availability and affordability. It also highlights the need for stronger health system readiness and frameworks that prioritize those with the highest clinical need.
The rise of GLP1 therapies is already influencing activity across health, wellness and fitness sectors. Many trainers and nutrition professionals report increased demand for guidance on maintaining lean mass, improving metabolic health and building sustainable habits while using these medications.
The guideline was developed following requests from Member States and included evidence reviews and consultation with individuals with lived experience. WHO will update the recommendations as new data becomes available and plans to work with partners in 2026 to support fair and transparent implementation.
