Diabetes is a growing global health concern, with the World Health Organization (WHO) recently cautioning that the number of diabetes cases in Africa could surge to 55 million by 2045, marking a 134% increase from 2021. According to WHO, the mortality rate from the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the continent is notably higher among patients with diabetes. Diabetes awareness and progress in managing the disease are globally recognized every year on World Diabetes Day, which falls on November 14th.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) that transpires either when the pancreas does not create enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively utilize the insulin it produces. Insulin, a peptide hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in maintaining normal blood glucose levels by facilitating cellular glucose uptake, regulating carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism and promoting cell division and growth.
The disease can manifest itself in two forms. Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce adequate insulin. Conversely, Type 2 Diabetes, which is more prevalent, takes place when the body does not use insulin appropriately, a condition known as insulin resistance. The primary factors contributing to type 2 diabetes include obesity and lack of exercise.
The Burden of Diabetes
In India
Diabetes presents a pressing challenge in India, with an estimated 8.7% of the population between the ages of 20 and 70 years battling the illness. According to the International Diabetes Federation Diabetes Atlas in 2019, India ranked among the top 10 countries for individuals with diabetes. The escalating prevalence of diabetes and other noncommunicable diseases stems from a combination of factors, including rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, tobacco use, and increasing life expectancy.
Worldwide Scenario
Presently, approximately 6% of the global population, translating to more than 420 million people, lives with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is the only major non-communicable disease where the risk of premature death is escalating, as opposed to decreasing. Notably, it has emerged as a predominant comorbid condition associated with severe COVID-19 infections. In Africa alone, an estimated 24 million people are living with diabetes in 2021.
Initiatives Against Diabetes
Recently, WHO launched the Global Diabetes Compact, aiming to lower the risk of diabetes and ensure that all diagnosed patients can access equitable, comprehensive, affordable, and quality treatment and care.
Meanwhile, in India, the National Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Target focuses on curbing the rise in obesity and diabetes prevalence. The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancers, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS), which commenced in 2010, provides support for diagnosis and cost-effective treatment at various healthcare levels.
Last Modified: February 13, 2024