World Diabetes at Record Levels, But Half Are Undiagnosed

A new report published by the International Diabetes Federation puts the worldwide number of people living with diabetes at 371 million, up from 366 million a year ago. The IDF estimates that of that number, 187 million people do not yet know they are suffering from the condition. Limited access to healthcare in developing nations often means the disease goes undiagnosed. While often viewed as primarily a Western problem, diabetes is spreading rapidly in poorer countries; four out of five diabetics now live in low and middle-income countries. Treatment of diabetes in these countries is often more difficult, especially when it comes to insulin, which requires refrigeration to prevent deterioration. The report projects that over 552 million people will have developed diabetes by 2030. Untreated, the disease can lead to serious complications, including blindness, nerve and kidney damage. Worldwide, over 4.8 million people a year die from diabetes, making it one of a number of health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, that healthcare campaigners want included in the next set of global development goals.