Rising Diabetes Prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa

A recent article from the World Health Organization (WHO) provides a comprehensive overview of the global diabetes epidemic, showcasing alarming trends, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. The focus on the “rising diabetes rates” within these regions highlights the urgent need for intervention and policy changes to combat this health crisis.

Global Epidemiology and Estimates

The number of adults living with diabetes worldwide has surpassed 800 million, more than quadrupling since 1990. Global diabetes prevalence in adults rose from 7% to 14% between 1990 and 2022. By 2022, almost 450 million adults aged 30 and older – about 59% of all adults with diabetes – remained untreated, with a staggering 90% of these untreated individuals residing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Regional Focus: Middle East and North Africa

The article highlights regional trends related to rising diabetes rates in the Middle East and North Africa:

– The prevalence of diabetes among adults aged 18 and older is particularly concerning in certain areas. Although the exact statistics for the Middle East and North Africa are not specified, the article mentions that the WHO South-East Asia and Eastern Mediterranean Regions have some of the highest diabetes prevalence rates among adults aged 18 and older, around 20%.
– The Middle East and North Africa are projected to see an alarming 87% increase in the number of people with diabetes by 2045.

Burden of Diabetes

The treatment gap is a significant challenge in these regions. The article notes that the Eastern Mediterranean Region, which includes parts of the Middle East and North Africa, has one of the lowest rates of diabetes treatment coverage, with fewer than 4 in 10 adults with diabetes taking glucose-lowering medication.

The economic and health burden is substantial. Global health expenditure on diabetes was estimated at $966 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2045, with a significant portion of this burden falling on LMICs, including those in the Middle East and North Africa.

Urgent Action Needed

The WHO emphasises the need for urgent action to combat rising diabetes rates and the widening treatment gaps, particularly in LMICs. This includes enacting policies that support healthy diets, physical activity, and improving health systems for prevention, early detection, and treatment.

In summary, the Middle East and North Africa regions are experiencing a significant rise in diabetes cases, with high prevalence rates and substantial treatment gaps. Addressing these issues through policy changes, improved health systems, and increased access to treatment is crucial to mitigate the growing burden of diabetes. Urging action on rising diabetes rates is necessary to improve health outcomes in these vulnerable areas.