Research finds over 250 million people are diabetic and they are unaware

A recent report by the International Diabetes Federation shared some alarming findings on the condition.

The report stated that globally 589 million people are living with diabetes, which is nearly one in nine adults. Among them, around 252 million are unaware of being diagnosed with the condition.

This puts them at a higher risk of developing complications and can even lead to early death. It is also a dangerous situation for the individuals as the window period to mitigate any complications would have ended before any preventive measures could be taken.

“The new data provides strong evidence that should spark action and promote initiatives to improve the lives of the many millions now living with diabetes and encourage more to detect diabetes in those at risk," commented Professor Dianna Magliano, who co-chairs the IDF Diabetes Atlas Committee.

The report also estimated that 3 in 4 adults with diabetes live in low and middle income countries. This condition is also responsible for over 3.4 million deaths annually.

Calling for immediate action to avert a major health crisis, IDF emphasised the urgent need for raising awareness, improved prevention, early detection and intervention to tackle the challenge.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that affects people when their blood sugar(glucose) is too high. The condition develops when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin.

Symptoms:

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the following can be included as the symptoms of diabetes.

  • Increased thirst (polydipsia) and dry mouth.
  • Frequent urination.
  • Fatigue.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
  • Slow-healing sores or cuts.
  • Frequent skin and/or vaginal yeast infections.

Diabetes is associated with serious complications, such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, nerve damage and loss of vision. As per the report, people living with type 2 diabetes are at 84 per cent higher risk of heart failure than people who do not have the condition.

Health