An estimated 422 million adults worldwide were living with diabetes in 2014, compared to 108 million in 1980. The global prevalence of diabetes has nearly doubled since 1980, with its proportion of the adult population rising from 4.7% to 8.5%. This reflects an increase in associated risk factors such as overweight and obesity. Over the past decade, the prevalence of diabetes has increased faster in low- and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.
Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and lower limb amputations. A healthy diet, physical activity, and avoiding smoking can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Additionally, diabetes can be treated with medication, regular check-ups, and treatment of complications, and its consequences can be avoided or delayed.
In 2007, the General Assembly adopted resolution 61/225 declaring 14 November as World Diabetes Day. The document recognizes “the urgent need to pursue multilateral efforts to promote and improve human health and provide access to treatment and medical education.”
The resolution also encouraged Member States to develop national policies on diabetes prevention, treatment and care in line with the sustainable development of health systems.
Access to diabetes care
The theme of World Diabetes Day 2021-23 is Access to Diabetes Treatment.
One hundred years after the discovery of insulin, millions of people with diabetes around the world do not have access to the care they need. People with diabetes require ongoing care and support to manage their condition and avoid complications.
The 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin presents a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the more than 460 million people living with diabetes and the millions more at risk. Together, the global diabetes community has the numbers, influence, and determination to bring about meaningful change. we need to try.
background
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it does produce. This causes an increase in glucose levels in the blood (hyperglycemia).
Type 1 diabetes (formerly known as insulin-dependent diabetes, or childhood-onset diabetes) is characterized by a lack of insulin production.
Type 2 diabetes (previously called non-insulin-dependent diabetes, or adult-onset diabetes) is caused by the body’s ineffective use of insulin. It is often caused by excess weight or lack of exercise.
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that is first recognized during pregnancy.
Every 5 seconds someone develops diabetes, every 10 seconds someone dies from diabetes, and every 30 seconds someone loses a limb to diabetes.