LDT “Bill Gates and PAHO Collaborate to Make Weight-Loss Drugs Accessible in Low-Income Countries”
Bill Gates and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) are working together to improve access to weight-loss medications like Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro in low- and middle-income countries. These medications, which have shown significant effectiveness in treating obesity, are often unaffordable for populations in these regions.
Addressing the Global Obesity Epidemic
Obesity affects approximately 1 billion people worldwide, with about 70% residing in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized obesity as a growing health crisis, estimating that the economic costs associated with overweight and obesity could reach $3 trillion by 2030 if not addressed.
The Gates Foundation and PAHO are exploring strategies to make these weight-loss drugs more accessible and affordable in these regions. One approach involves leveraging bulk purchasing mechanisms to reduce costs and facilitate regulatory approvals. Additionally, the Gates Foundation is considering funding clinical trials to study the efficacy of these medications in diverse populations, which could help expand access globally.
Potential for Generic Alternatives
The active ingredient in Wegovy, semaglutide, is set to lose patent protection in countries like India and China in 2026, paving the way for the development of generic versions. This could significantly lower the cost of the medication, making it more accessible to populations in low- and middle-income countries.
The Gates Foundation has previously partnered with manufacturers to produce affordable versions of other medications, such as a $40-per-year HIV prevention drug with India’s Hetero. This model could be replicated for weight-loss drugs, potentially leading to more affordable options for those in need.
Commitment to Global Health Equity
Bill Gates emphasized the foundation’s commitment to global health equity, stating that any effective drug should be made “super, super cheap so that it can get to everyone in the world.” This initiative aligns with the Gates Foundation’s broader mission to address health disparities and improve access to essential medicines worldwide.
As discussions continue, the collaboration between the Gates Foundation and PAHO represents a significant step toward addressing the global obesity epidemic and ensuring that effective treatments are accessible to all, regardless of income level.
