Millions of people around the world live with diabetes without knowing it. A new global study reveals that nearly half of all adults with the disease remain undiagnosed — and even among those who receive treatment, only a small share actually manage to keep their blood sugar under control.
A growing health crisis
Diabetes cases are rising fast, and without early detection, millions risk severe complications such as blindness, kidney failure, and heart disease.
Shocking number of undiagnosed cases
Researchers estimate that 44 percent of adults with diabetes have never been told they have the disease — with young adults being especially overlooked.
What happens after diagnosis
Most people who are diagnosed are prescribed medication. In fact, over 90 percent are receiving some form of treatment.
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Treatment does not equal control
Even with access to medication, only 42 percent of patients successfully maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Just one in five live with stable diabetes
Globally, only about 21 percent of people with diabetes have their condition optimally managed — meaning four out of five remain at risk.
Huge disparities across regions
High-income countries like the U.S. have strong diagnosis rates, while in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, fewer than 20 percent of people with diabetes even know they have it.
Some regions show progress
In parts of Latin America, more patients are successfully managing their blood sugar, showing that better systems can make a real difference.
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A looming challenge for 2050
If current trends continue, as many as 1.3 billion people could be living with diabetes by mid-century, creating what experts warn could become a silent epidemic.
WHO’s ambitious target
The World Health Organization has set a goal of diagnosing 80 percent of all diabetes cases by 2030 — a crucial step in turning the tide.
Urgent need for better access
The study emphasizes the importance of expanding screening programs and ensuring affordable medication and monitoring tools, particularly for younger people and underserved regions.
This article is based on information from ScienceDaily
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