WHO expands essential medicine list for cancer, diabetes treatment

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated editions of its Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML) and Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc), significantly broadening global access to treatments for cancers, diabetes with comorbidities such as obesity, cystic fibrosis, psoriasis, haemophilia, and other blood-related disorders.

The EML and EMLc serve as global references for medicines considered most critical to public health. Adopted in more than 150 countries, the lists guide government procurement, public supply chains, and health insurance reimbursement schemes. The latest revision marks the 24th edition of the EML and the 10th edition of the EMLc.

“The new editions of essential medicines lists mark a significant step toward expanding access to medicines with proven clinical benefits and high potential for global public health impact,” said Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Systems, Access, and Data.

Launched in 1977 to improve access to medicines in developing countries, the WHO Model Lists are now regarded as a trusted global policy framework for universal health coverage and priority setting in health systems.

For the 2025 update, the WHO Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines reviewed 59 applications, including 31 proposals for new medicines or classes.

The review resulted in: 20 new medicines added to the EML, 15 new medicines added to the EMLc, Expanded use indications for 7 previously listed medicines. The updated lists now feature 523 medicines for adults and 374 for children.

Focus on cancer medicines

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths annually and almost one-third of premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Seven applications covering 25 cancer medicines were evaluated. Only therapies proven to extend life by at least 4–6 months were recommended.

Key inclusions are: Pembrolizumab, approved as a first-line monotherapy for metastatic cervical, colorectal, and non-small cell lung cancers, Atezolizumab and Cemiplimab, added as therapeutic alternatives.

The committee also encouraged dose optimization strategies to improve access in resource-limited settings while awaiting broader health system reforms.

Diabetes and obesity

The committee endorsed GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, which improve blood sugar control, support weight loss, reduce complications, and lower early mortality among people with type 2 diabetes, especially those with heart or kidney disease.

However, WHO experts cautioned that the high cost of these medicines poses major barriers. The guidance recommends prioritizing high-risk patients, promoting generic competition to lower prices, expanding availability to primary care facilities, particularly in underserved communities.

Equity and access

“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,” said Deusdedit Mubangizi, WHO Director of Policy and Standards for Medicines and Health Products.

Mubangizi stressed that a large share of household out-of-pocket health spending in low- and middle-income countries goes toward NCD medicines, many of which are already classified as essential but remain financially out of reach.