Diabetes has affected 800 million people globally, doubling over three decades, with the largest increases seen in low- and middle-income countries where access to treatment remains challenging.
Deutsche Welle reports.
In short:
- A new Lancet study reveals global diabetes rates doubled from 7% in 1990 to 14% in 2022, driven by poor diet and obesity in developing regions.
- Developing countries like Pakistan saw sharp increases; one-third of Pakistani women now have diabetes compared to one-tenth in 1990.
- In 2022, 445 million people lacked diabetes treatment, with significant gaps in sub-Saharan Africa, where only 5-10% of adults receive any care.
Key quote:
Complications from untreated diabetes “include amputation, heart disease, kidney damage, or vision loss, or in some cases, premature death.”
— Majid Ezzati, senior study author, Imperial College London
Why this matters:
Rising diabetes rates in developing nations highlight a growing global health crisis. The role of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the disease continues to be explored. With limited access to treatment, millions face severe health risks, adding to the economic burden in low-income regions unprepared to manage chronic diseases.
Related EHN coverage:
