The number of people with diabetes worldwide has quadrupled since 1990, according to a recent study by the international NCD-RisC network, published in the Lancet and declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). This major study showed that by 2022, more than 800 million adults worldwide were living with the disease – a number that equates to around one in ten people.
According to Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the WHO and coordinator of the study, this incredible increase goes hand in hand with the global spread of obesity. The situation is particularly dire in poor countries, where a large part of the population does not have access to the necessary treatments. On World Diabetes Day, the WHO emphasized that 450 million people are still lacking medication and care.
Tedros warned that the commercialization of unhealthy food, insufficient exercise and poverty will only exacerbate the problem. He urged governments to promote healthier lifestyles and invest in prevention, early diagnosis and treatment within healthcare systems.
South Asia and the Middle East hit hard
The study revealed that the greatest increase in diabetes cases occurred in economically weaker sections. In South Asia and the Middle East, the disease is estimated to affect around 20 percent of the population. Surprisingly, in these areas, less than 40 percent of patients are receiving the necessary medications to manage their blood sugar levels. In contrast, the problem in Western Europe and East Africa remains limited.
2024-11-18 18:02:00
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A: Diet is a critical component in both the management and prevention of diabetes. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance. It’s also important to limit the intake of refined sugars and processed foods, which can cause spikes in blood glucose. Educating patients about portion control and the glycemic index of different foods empowers them to make healthier choices and take control of their condition.
Q: Dr. Brown, as a diabetologist, what are your thoughts on the recent study that shows a quadrupling of diabetes cases worldwide since 1990?
A: The study’s results are concerning, and they highlight the need for increased awareness and intervention on a global scale. We need to focus on prevention strategies, identify risk factors early, and improve access to care for those affected. This includes promoting healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, as well as increased screening and early diagnosis. Governments and health organizations must prioritize addressing this issue to reduce the burden of diabetes on individuals and healthcare systems.
Q: Mr. Smith, as a policy maker specializing in nutrition, how do you think the commercialization of unhealthy food contributes to the rising cases of diabetes?
A: The prevalence of processed and sugary foods in our diets has certainly played a significant role in the increase of diabetes incidence. These foods are often high in calories and low in nutrients, leading to weight gain and other health issues. Additionally, they are heavily marketed, making them easily accessible and affordable for many people. Governments need to prioritize public health by implementing policies that restrict the marketing and availability of these foods, especially in low-income areas where they are most prevalent. We also need to invest in nutrition education and make healthy food options more accessible and affordable.
Q: Dr. Brown, what are some of the challenges you’ve observed in treating diabetes, particularly in developing countries?
A: In many low and middle-income countries, the primary challenge is lack of access to healthcare services and diabetes medications. Patients may not be able to afford treatments, or healthcare facilities may not have the resources needed to provide adequate care. Additionally, public health campaigns may not be as effective in reaching these populations, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and poor management of the disease. It’s crucial that we work towards addressing these inequalities and ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need to manage their diabetes.
Q: Ms. Khan, as a nutritionist,
