The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued its first-ever guidelines on the use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss, marking a significant step in addressing the global obesity epidemic. Released on March 4, 2024, the guidelines recommend the long-term use of these medications for adults with obesity when clinically appropriate. The medications included in this guidance are semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide.
The recommendations, published in the medical journal JAMA, emphasize that while GLP-1 medications can play a crucial role, they are not a standalone solution for obesity treatment. According to the WHO, obesity is a chronic disease requiring comprehensive, lifelong management that includes a structured program of healthy eating, regular physical activity, and ongoing counseling.
Dr. Louis Arrone, director of the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine, described the guidelines as indicative of a crucial shift in the treatment of obesity. He stated, “It signals that treating obesity early — as a chronic disease that deserves lifelong care — is finally moving into the mainstream of health care.” Arrone’s insights reflect the growing recognition that obesity requires a multifaceted approach to management.
The guidelines also highlight significant challenges associated with GLP-1 medications, including their high cost, limited availability, and unequal access across different regions. The WHO has urged member countries to establish fair and affordable pathways to ensure that those with the greatest medical need receive appropriate treatment first.
The use of GLP-1 medications can facilitate adherence to dietary recommendations by reducing hunger and altering food cravings. Arrone noted that many patients report feeling fuller sooner and able to maintain healthier eating habits as a result. He emphasized the importance of combining medication with behavioral changes, suggesting that “medicines work best when they go hand in hand with changes in eating habits and daily behaviors.”
A pressing concern is the projected rise in obesity rates worldwide, with more than 1 billion people currently living with this condition. The WHO estimates that this number could reach 2 billion by 2030. In light of this impending crisis, the organization plans to focus future guidelines on identifying and prioritizing individuals with the greatest need for treatment.
The WHO has called for a “reboot” of obesity care strategies, advocating for improved prevention, treatment, and systemic capacity to tackle this public health challenge. “This signals a shift in thinking unlike anything we’ve seen in a generation — a move toward treating obesity first, rather than waiting for people to develop the many complications that follow,” Arrone added.
As the global health community grapples with the complexities of obesity management, the WHO’s new guidelines represent a pivotal moment in recognizing the need for comprehensive care. The emphasis on long-term treatment strategies and equitable access to medications could significantly impact the lives of millions affected by obesity.