Global diabetes rate has doubled in last 30 years
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- November 14, 2024
- 4:07 pm
- 24
- Food & Lifestyle
Diabetes is on the rise worldwide, with the global rate doubling over the last 30 years. In 2022, diabetes affected about 14% of all adults globally, a sharp increase from just 7% in 1990. A study in The Lancet says a health crisis now affects over 800 million people, up from under 200 million in 1990.
This rise in diabetes is a health concern. It also shows a growing gap in healthcare between developed and developing nations. Low-income countries bear the brunt of untreated cases. To tackle this crisis, we must understand the trend, its causes, and potential solutions.
Diabetes Trends Around the World
The Lancet study found that global diabetes rates rose. But, the impact varies greatly by country. Wealthy nations like Japan, Canada, France, and Denmark saw stable or lower diabetes rates. However, countries like Pakistan, India, and parts of sub-Saharan Africa saw dramatic increases.
In Pakistan, nearly one-third of women are now diabetic, up from less than a tenth in 1990. This shift shows a worrying trend. As countries develop, lifestyle changes can lead to more diabetes, especially Type 2. Reduced activity and high-calorie diets are to blame.
Causes of Rising Diabetes Rates
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the two primary forms of the condition. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that often starts in childhood. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type in adults, is linked to lifestyle.
Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and unhealthy diets are causing a rise in Type 2 diabetes. Obesity is the main cause. As fast-food culture spreads, especially in lower-income countries, obesity and diabetes have surged. Fast food is often cheaper than healthier options there.
The Growing Gap in Diabetes Treatment
While diabetes affects people across the world, access to treatment varies significantly. The study found that, in 2022, 445 million adults over 30 with diabetes were not treated well. That's three in five of them. A third of the world's untreated diabetics live in developing countries like India. In sub-Saharan Africa, only 5-10% of diabetics get treatment.
This lack of treatment is alarming. Untreated diabetes can cause severe complications. These include heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and even death. Majid Ezzati, a senior author of a study at Imperial College London, said that untreated diabetes mainly affects young people in poor countries. This puts them at risk of lifelong complications.
Moving Forward: Addressing the Diabetes Crisis
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach. Promoting healthier diets and exercise is crucial, especially in developing nations. There, cheap, unhealthy foods have caused a rise in diabetes. Also, better access to cheap diabetes care in poor countries can prevent severe health issues.
Government policies can help. They should encourage exercise, healthy diets, and public health campaigns. Countries with limited healthcare need support from global organizations. They need affordable diabetes treatment for those affected.
The doubling of diabetes rates globally serves as a wake-up call. With the right awareness, prevention, and treatment, we can fight this health challenge together.
