Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
November 14, 2025 Healthcare
November 14 marks World Diabetes Day, the theme of which this year is "Diabetes at Every Stage of Life." The World Health Organization emphasizes that the disease affects people of all ages and requires ongoing attention throughout life.
Increase in morbidity
According to the WHO, the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise rapidly, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. From 1990 to 2022, the number of people living with diabetes increased from 200 million to 830 million. In 2022, 14 percent of people over 18 years of age had diabetes, a seven percent increase since 1990. Moreover, more than half (59 percent) of adults over 30 diagnosed with the disease were not taking medication to control the disease. Low- and middle-income countries have the lowest treatment coverage.
Complications of the disease
Diabetes remains a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, and strokes, and often leads to lower limb amputations. In 2021, diabetes was the direct cause of 1.6 million deaths, 47 percent of which occurred in people under 70. Another 530,000 deaths were due to diabetes-related kidney disease. High blood sugar accounted for approximately 11 percent of cardiovascular deaths. Overall, diabetes and its related complications are estimated to have killed over two million people in 2021.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes develops either due to insufficient insulin production or the body's inability to effectively utilize it. Long-term hyperglycemia leads to damage to blood vessels and the nervous system. Symptoms can appear suddenly, but in type 2 diabetes, they are often mild, leading to late diagnosis and the development of complications. Type 2 diabetes accounts for over 95 percent of all cases, and is increasingly being diagnosed in children.
Treatment and prevention
The WHO emphasizes that type 2 diabetes can be prevented. A healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking can help prevent or delay the onset of the disease. Early diagnosis and regular medical checkups remain key to preventing severe complications.
The organization reminds that diabetes is controllable. A combination of diet, exercise, medication, and treatment of complications helps slow the progression of the disease. WHO continues to support countries in strengthening prevention and treatment systems, including implementing the Global Pact to End Diabetes and achieving global coverage targets by 2030.
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