Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood1 glucose. Hyperglycaemia,2 or raised blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body’s systems, especially the nerves and blood3 vessels. It’s a global health crisis that’s escalating at an alarming rate, and the statistics are truly concerning.
According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), a staggering 10.5% of the world’s adult population (aged 20-79) is currently living with diabetes. That’s roughly 537 million people. Even more alarming is the fact that almost half of these individuals remain undiagnosed, unaware of the serious health risks they face.
The burden of diabetes is not evenly distributed. A disproportionate majority (3 in 4) of adults with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries, where access to healthcare and resources may be limited. This disparity highlights the urgent need for increased awareness, prevention efforts, and improved healthcare access in these regions.
The IDF also projects a grim future for diabetes prevalence. By 2030, the number of people living with diabetes is expected to surge to 643 million, and by 2045, it’s estimated to reach a staggering 783 million. These figures paint a stark picture of the growing challenges we face in combating this global health issue.
What can we do?
- Increase Awareness: Education is key. Understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and complications of diabetes can empower individuals to take preventive measures and seek early diagnosis.
- Promote Healthy Lifestyles: Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Improve Access to Care: Ensuring access to affordable healthcare, including diabetes medication and management programs, is crucial for preventing complications and improving the quality of life for those living with diabetes.
- Support Research: Continued research into diabetes prevention, treatment, and management is essential for finding new solutions and improving outcomes for those affected by this disease.
The rising prevalence of diabetes is a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that we need to take action now to address this global health crisis. By working together to raise awareness, promote healthy living, and improve access to care, we can make a difference in the fight against diabetes.
