Alarming Diabetes Statistics from the International Diabetes Federation
According to a recent report by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), chronic and unrecognized diabetes is becoming an alarming global health issue, with over 250 million individuals unaware of their conditions. The study, revealed at the commencement of the IDF World Diabetes Congress in Bangkok, outlines the scale of the problem, affecting approximately one in nine adults.
Globally, around
589 million adults between the ages of
20 and 79 have diabetes, a population exceeding that of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean combined. A staggering
252 million among them do not realize they are afflicted, resulting in heightened risks of severe complications and premature mortality. Many may receive a diagnosis only after experiencing serious health setbacks that could have been prevented or delayed with earlier intervention.
The IDF’s Atlas highlights several concerning projections, estimating that the number of adults with diabetes could reach
853 million by the year 2050. Notably,
three-quarters of these individuals reside in low to middle-income nations (LMICs), where healthcare resources might be scant.
Diabetes contributes to over
3.4 million deaths annually, with unrecognized cases placing an extra burden on healthcare systems that must deal with the effects of diabetes-related complications. These complications can range from cardiovascular diseases and kidney failure to nerve damage and vision loss, significantly impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. The report states that adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have an
84% greater risk of heart failure than their non-diabetic counterparts.
In light of these findings, the IDF emphasizes an urgent need for enhanced programs in the
prevention,
early detection, and
intervention for diabetes. The global health expenditure associated with diabetes surpassed
one trillion dollars in 2024, highlighting the economic impact alongside the health crisis. The report suggests governments should prioritize investment in proactive healthcare measures, particularly in areas where diabetes remains frequently undiagnosed.
Professor Dianna Magliano, co-chair of the IDF Atlas Committee, points out, “The recent data serves as compelling evidence that should instigate action and inspire initiatives aimed at improving lifestyles for millions living with diabetes, and encouraging early detection in at-risk populations.”
In recognizing the rapid rise in diabetes prevalence, Professor Peter Schwarz, the IDF President, remarked, “These findings underscore an urgent need for more robust national and global action. With more than
four in ten people with diabetes still undiagnosed, governments must focus on screening, early diagnosis, and education.”
Collaborative efforts across multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, technology, and the private sector, will be required to effectively address and counter the rising tide of diabetes. Failure to act carries significant implications, making inertia an unacceptable option.
The IDF suggests visiting
diabetesatlas.org for a comprehensive view of the global, regional, and national findings presented in the latest report. This resource serves as an essential tool for policymakers, healthcare providers, and advocates working to combat the diabetes epidemic.
The
International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is a global organization that unites over 240 diabetes associations from more than 160 countries, dedicated to improving the lives of people with diabetes and preventing the disease in at-risk populations. The IDF Atlas is recognized as a primary source of information on the global impact of diabetes, providing valuable insights and statistics since its inception in 2000.