Research recently compiled and published in The Lancet indicates that diabetes worldwide has quadrupled since 1980. This was the first coordinated global effort to compile data from 200 countries. The research involved data from over 751 studies that included 4.4 million adults around the world. In examining this data, the numbers can be extrapolated to estimate that 422 million adults are currently living with diabetes. This number was around 108 million in 1980. Diabetes was made the theme of this year’s World Health Day, which was April 7, and the WHO published the Global Report on Diabetes to raise awareness around the issue.
Countries with the Highest & Lowest Rates of Diabetes
Researchers found that the countries with the lowest incidence of diabetes, 5 percent of the population, are in northwestern Europe. Surprising to some, the countries with the highest incidence of diabetes were in the Pacific Islands. American Samoa had the highest rate of diabetes, with 30 percent of the adult population diagnosed with the condition. Keep in mind, these numbers are probably higher than what was found in studies, since not all people are aware they have diabetes and not all see a healthcare provider on a regular basis.
Estimated Prevalence of Adults with Diabetes
Source: http://www.who.int
Causes of Type 2 Diabetes
While access to more sugary beverages and processed foods seems to be a major contributing factor to diabetes, there are other causes to examine as well. The development of type 2 diabetes correlates with obesity, and some research has also linked malnutrition in early childhood to the development of diabetes later in life. Evidence suggests that malnutrition as a fetus and as an infant can affect the way the body produces and uses insulin. Heavy smokers also have a higher risk of developing the condition. While not all people in developing countries are consuming more fast food, they are consuming more food in general. As people gain more financial resources, they tend to eat more food, no matter what that food may be. This leads to an increase in BMI and obesity, a major risk factor for diabetes.
What Can We Do?
According to the WHO’s Global Report on Diabetes, the key to minimizing the impact, economically and physically, is early diagnosis. When actions are taken to change diet and lifestyle when pre-diabetes is detected, the condition can often be reversed. Also, when diabetes is detected early and changes are made, including the addition of basic and inexpensive diabetes medication, the effects can be controlled and minimized. The report also mentions promoting breastfeeding, promoting healthy diet and exercise, and minimizing the intake of sugary beverages.
