WHO Warns Africa's Diabetes Cases Could Reach 54 Million by 2045
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the number of people living with diabetes in Africa could soar to 54 million by 2045, representing the highest projected increase globally if urgent measures are not taken. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, made this statement on Thursday in commemoration of World Diabetes Day 2024, which was themed “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps.”
Currently, over 24 million adults in the WHO African Region are living with diabetes, with half of them undiagnosed. Dr. Moeti attributed the rising prevalence of the disease to factors like urbanization, poor diets, and a lack of physical activity. Without immediate intervention, the number of people affected is expected to nearly double by 2045, creating significant health and economic burdens due to the high cost of managing the condition.
Diabetes, a chronic condition that leads to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, can result in serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and amputations if left untreated. Dr. Moeti pointed out that Africa faces a major challenge in combating diabetes due to the region’s low investment in diabetes care—just 1% of the health budget is allocated to addressing chronic diseases like diabetes, which are often overshadowed by the focus on acute infectious diseases.
She stressed that effective diabetes management requires a holistic approach that includes balanced physical activity, a healthy diet, mental health support, and access to essential medicines. Dr. Moeti also highlighted the importance of tackling risk factors such as obesity, poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyles while promoting community engagement to reduce stigma and create supportive environments for people living with diabetes.
This year, African countries endorsed the WHO’s "Global Diabetes Compact", which focuses on integrating diabetes care into broader health systems, particularly at the primary healthcare level. Dr. Moeti urged individuals, communities, governments, health workers, and policymakers to unite in taking action to prevent and manage diabetes through healthier lifestyles, regular check-ups, and better access to care.
To improve diabetes care in Africa, the WHO is working to address misconceptions, strengthen fragile healthcare systems, and enhance the capacity of healthcare workers to manage chronic conditions.
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