According to a 2023 report by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 537 million adults aged between 20 and 79 years were living with diabetes in 2021.
The data approximated that the number will rise to around 700 million by 2045 if the current trend continues.
The report also showed that diabetes 2 cases are higher compared to diabetes 1, which is popular with children and young adults.
World Diabetes Day was established in 1991 by IDF and the World Health Organisation (WHO) and became an official United Nations Day in 2006 with the passage of United Nations Resolution 61/225.
According to WHO, this year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” underscores its commitment to reducing the risk of diabetes.
It also shows WHO’s commitment to ensure that all people who are diagnosed with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable, and quality treatment and care.