In some of the poorest regions in the world such as Africa, where infectious diseases have traditionally been the focus of health care systems, diabetes cases are expected to increase by 90% by 2030. At least 78% of people in Africa are undiagnosed and do not know they are living with diabetes.
Other figures to be released today also show:
- 80% of people with diabetes live in low and middle income countries.
- 78,000 children develop type 1 diabetes every year
- The greatest number of people with diabetes are between 40-59 years of age
"In every country and in every community worldwide, we are losing the battle against this cruel and deadly disease" said Jean Claude Mbanya, President of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) "We want World Diabetes Day 2011 to bring these alarming diabetes facts into the global spotlight. We demand that public and world leaders act on diabetes now."
The release of these figures follow the September meeting of 193 Heads of State and government at the UN High Level Meeting in New York to agree on a Political Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including diabetes. This marks a major milestone for diabetes and other NCDs. However in some areas stronger commitments are needed.
"World leaders have recognised the magnitude and impact of these diseases and the urgent need for action. In some key areas we wanted stronger commitments and targets but the Declaration will accelerate international progress on diabetes and NCDs, saving millions of people from preventable death and disability" said Ann Keeling, CEO, International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and Chair of the NCD Alliance.
IDF is committed to translating UN Commitments into action by fostering a new level of partnership involving public, private and people.
It is hoped that campaigns such as today's World Diabetes Day will continue to raise the voice of people with diabetes and move from advocacy to action on a global scale.
For more information on the 5th edition Diabetes Atlas and country-by-country statistics visit: http://www.idf.org/diabetesatlas (online as of 14 November).
About World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated every year on November 14. The World Diabetes Day campaign is led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and its member associations. It engages millions of people worldwide in diabetes advocacy and awareness. World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat that diabetes now poses. World Diabetes Day became an official United Nations Day in 2007 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225. The campaign draws attention to issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world and keeps diabetes firmly in the public spotlight.
About the International Diabetes Federation (IDF)
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is an umbrella organisation of over 200 national diabetes associations in over 160 countries. It represents the interests of the growing number of people with diabetes and those at risk. The Federation has been leading the global diabetes community since 1950. IDF's mission is to promote diabetes care, prevention and a cure worldwide.