Undiagnosed Diabetes Hits 44% Worldwide; Major Challenge in Poor Countries: The Lancet Study

The Global Burden of Disease study, covering 204 countries, shows that while more than half of adults aged 15 and above worldwide were diagnosed with diabetes by 2023, vast disparities exist. North America and high-income Asia Pacific regions lead in diagnosis and treatment, while central sub-Saharan Africa struggles, with fewer than 20% aware of their condition. By 2050, diabetes is projected to affect 1.3 billion people globally. Researchers urge urgent investment in youth screening and broader access to medicines and glucose monitoring, echoing WHO’s 2030 targets: 80% diagnosed and 80% of those maintaining good glycaemic and blood pressure control. Without intensified efforts, diabetes risks becoming a silent epidemic.

Reference: Stafford, Lauryn K et al.; Global, regional, and national cascades of diabetes care, 2000–23: a systematic review and modelling analysis using findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study; The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue 0; doi: 10.1016/S2213-8587(25)00217-7