Global diabetes cases on pace to soar to 1.3 billion people in the next 3 decades, new study finds
The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.The big ideaThat is one of the key findings from our study on the global burden of diabetes recently published in The Lancet.
The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.
The big idea
- That is one of the key findings from our study on the global burden of diabetes recently published in The Lancet.
- Our study included more than 27,000 data sources to produce estimates of diabetes prevalence, disability and deaths for 204 countries and territories from 1990 through 2021.
- Using a modeling tool that takes into account sociodemographic factors and obesity, we projected diabetes prevalence out to 2050.
- In 2021, obesity was the most important risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, accounting for more than half of disability and death from the disease.
Why it matters
- This compounds the stress of diabetes on health care systems, requiring more comprehensive screening and management.
- However, a study found that fewer than 1 in 10 people with diabetes in low- and middle-income countries have access to comprehensive diabetes treatment.
- Based on an abundance of research, the two primary drivers of the expected rise in diabetes cases will be aging and obesity.
What other research is being done
- Research shows that there are many complex social and economic dynamics at play when it comes to trying to live a healthy lifestyle.
- Low income, low education level and living in urban areas are all associated with a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.