A recent study published in The Lancet has revealed a staggering rise in global diabetes rates, with over 800 million adults now living with the condition—almost double previous estimates. The research, conducted by the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the escalating health crisis, especially in low- and middle-income countries where diabetes has become a major public health concern.
According to the study, approximately 828 million adults aged 18 and older were diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes in 2022. Among those aged 30 and above, nearly 59%—around 445 million people—are not receiving the necessary treatment. This alarming statistic highlights a significant treatment gap, particularly in regions where access to healthcare is limited.
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The previous WHO estimate for global diabetes prevalence was around 422 million, marking a notable increase in cases. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 studies involving more than 140 million individuals worldwide, making it the first comprehensive global analysis of diabetes rates and treatment disparities. It shows that the global diabetes rate has doubled since 1990, from 7% to 14%, with the surge predominantly driven by low- and middle-income nations.
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Widening Treatment Gaps
Despite the rising number of diabetes cases, treatment rates have not kept pace, especially in regions like sub-Saharan Africa. In some areas, only 5-10% of those diagnosed are receiving any form of treatment, with many facing financial barriers to essential medications like insulin. Jean Claude Mbanya, a professor at the University of Yaoundé I in Cameroon, warned that a vast number of individuals in sub-Saharan Africa are at risk of serious health complications due to a lack of access to care.
There is also a growing disparity between low- and high-income nations. While wealthier countries have made strides in improving diabetes management, regions with limited resources continue to struggle with widening treatment gaps.
Type 2 Diabetes: A Preventable Crisis
Most of the cases identified in the study are type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. The rise in type 2 diabetes is particularly concerning because it is largely preventable through lifestyle changes. However, unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to a worsening crisis.
The study’s authors highlighted that traditional fasting plasma glucose tests might have missed a significant number of cases, especially in South Asia. To provide a more accurate estimate, the study combined both fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin tests.
Urgent Action Needed
With millions living with untreated diabetes, the study emphasizes the urgent need for global action. The increasing prevalence of the disease, coupled with inadequate treatment access in many regions, poses a serious risk to global health. This could lead to higher mortality rates and place a greater strain on healthcare systems worldwide.
The study advocates for stronger healthcare infrastructure, improved access to affordable medications, and targeted public health campaigns aimed at preventing and managing diabetes, especially in countries most affected by the disease. Experts warn that without immediate intervention, the diabetes crisis will continue to worsen, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income nations.
