Key Takeaways from the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML) Update (May 2025)
Here’s a summary of the key information from the provided text:
1. Cancer Treatments:
The WHO endorsed a cancer experts report focused on improving access to and affordability of cancer treatments.
the report supports evidence-based strategies like dose optimization.
Clinical strategies can be implemented immediately for faster benefits, especially in resource-limited settings.
2. Diabetes & Obesity Medicines:
Diabetes affects over 800 million people globally (half untreated), and obesity affects over 1 billion, with rising rates in low- and middle-income countries.
GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide) and the GLP-1/GIP dual receptor agonist (tirzepatide) have been added to the EML.
These medicines are recommended for adults with type 2 diabetes with established cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease and obesity (BMI ≥ 30kg/m2).
Access is limited by high prices. Key strategies to improve access include:
Prioritizing patients who would benefit most.
Encouraging generic competition.
Making treatments available in primary care, especially underserved areas.3.General Points about the EML:
The 25th WHO Expert Committee meeting was held May 5-9, 2025, in Geneva.
The Committee reviewed 59 applications, evaluating effectiveness, safety, cost, and cost-effectiveness.
The EML is updated every two years by experts to address new health challenges and improve access to effective, affordable treatments.
The Committee also reviewed updates to the AWaRe classification of antibiotics.
* Equitable access requires strong political will, multisectoral cooperation, and people-centred programs.
You can find more detailed information in the Executive Summary: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/B09544
