WHO updates essential medicines list with key cancer, diabetes treatments
The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its model list of essential medicines (EML) and essential medicines for children (EMLc), adding new treatments for cancer, diabetes, obesity, and several other serious health conditions. The updated lists, now in their 24th edition for adults and 10th for children, are used by more than 150 countries as a blueprint for national health policies, procurement, and insurance coverage.
Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO assistant director-general for health systems, access and data, said:
“The new editions of essential medicines lists mark a significant step toward expanding access to new medicines with proven clinical benefits and with high potential for global public health impact.”
Why the WHO essential medicines list matters
The WHO EML highlights the priority medicines needed to address the most pressing public health concerns. It guides governments, especially in low- and middle-income countries, to ensure equitable access to affordable treatments. This year, the expert committee reviewed 59 applications, recommending 20 new medicines for adults and 15 for children, bringing the totals to 523 essential medicines for adults and 374 for children.
New cancer medicines included
Cancer is the world’s second leading cause of death, responsible for nearly 10 million deaths each year. Despite the large number of new cancer drugs entering the market, only a few meet the WHO’s strict criteria for inclusion — requiring proven survival benefits of at least 4–6 months.
The updated list now includes PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors, which help the immune system attack cancer cells more effectively. Pembrolizumab was added as a first-line treatment for metastatic cervical, colorectal, and non-small cell lung cancers. Atezolizumab and cemiplimab were also added as alternatives.
The committee also endorsed evidence-based clinical strategies, such as dose optimization, to improve affordability and access to cancer treatments, especially in resource-limited settings.
Diabetes, obesity medicines added
Diabetes and obesity are among the fastest growing global health challenges, affecting over 800 million people with diabetes and 1 billion people with obesity worldwide. Many of these individuals live in low- and middle-income countries where access to modern therapies is limited.
The WHO has now added GLP-1 receptor agonists — semaglutide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide — along with the dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist tirzepatide. These medicines help control blood sugar, reduce the risk of heart and kidney complications, support weight loss, and lower early death risks in people with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and obesity.
However, the high cost of these treatments remains a barrier. WHO has urged governments and pharmaceutical companies to work on fair pricing strategies and encourage generic competition to expand access.
Other important additions
In addition to cancer and diabetes medicines, the new lists include treatments for cystic fibrosis, haemophilia, psoriasis, and blood-related disorders, reflecting WHO’s commitment to addressing a wide range of critical health needs.
The bigger picture
Since its launch in 1977, the WHO model list has been a trusted global health policy tool, shaping procurement and reimbursement systems worldwide. By updating the list every two years, WHO ensures that countries can prioritize medicines with the strongest evidence of effectiveness, safety, and cost-efficiency.
Deusdedit Mubangizi, WHO director of policy and standards for medicines and health products, emphasized:
“Achieving equitable access to essential medicines requires a coherent health system response backed by strong political will, multisectoral cooperation, and people-centred programmes that leave no one behind.”
The bottom line
The latest WHO update reflects a global shift towards integrating innovative, life-saving treatments into health systems worldwide. With cancer immunotherapies and GLP-1 receptor agonists now recognized as essential, governments are encouraged to expand access while keeping affordability at the forefront of public health strategies.
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