The Number of People Living with Diabetes Has Quadrupled in the Past Two Decades
The number of people living with diabetes worldwide has quadrupled in the past two decades, with 830 million people diagnosed as of 2022, as published this week in The Lancet.
Why the Spike?
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) outlines the following four reasons for the increase in diabetes rates.
1. Diet
“Eating a diet high in fat and processed sugar can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes,” the ADA wrote.
In particular, the organization recommends drinking water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages.
2. Lack of Physical Activity
“Being physically active less than three times a week can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes,” the ADA states.
Experts recommend that American adults get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, along with at least two days of muscle-strengthening exercises.
3. Being Overweight or Obese
Although excess weight increases diabetes risk, the ADA notes that many diabetes patients are at a normal weight or only moderately overweight.
In 2022, one in every eight people in the world were living with obesity, according to WHO.
4. Family History
“Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes,” the ADA noted.
What Needs to Change?
“To bring the global diabetes epidemic under control, countries must urgently take action,” WHO’s Tedros wrote in the release.
“This starts with enacting policies that support healthy diets and physical activity and, most importantly, health systems that provide prevention, early detection and treatment.”
To reduce diabetes rates, experts call for regulators to “step up and ensure that they enforce healthy food options.”
“Many other countries are far ahead of the U.S. when it comes to such regulations today, particularly in relation to food additives and food labels,” emphasized Dr. Arti Masturzo, chief medical officer at CCS, an Ohio-based company focused on simplifying holistic chronic care management for patients.
Conclusion
The alarming rise in diabetes is a global health crisis that requires immediate attention and action. By understanding the causes of the increase and implementing effective policies and strategies, we can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and improve the lives of those living with the disease.
FAQs
Q: What are the four main reasons for the increase in diabetes rates?
A: The four main reasons are diet, lack of physical activity, being overweight or obese, and family history.
Q: What can individuals do to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes?
A: Individuals can reduce their risk by eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing their family history.
Q: What can governments do to reduce the risk of diabetes?
A: Governments can reduce the risk of diabetes by enacting policies that support healthy diets and physical activity, providing access to healthcare services, and promoting education and awareness about diabetes prevention and management.
