Globally, the risk of diabetes is increasing rapidly. In the year 2021, 529 million (about 53 crores) people worldwide were found to be victims of this chronic disease. Researchers have expressed concern that the rate at which diabetes cases are increasing, there is a possibility that in the next 25-30 years, by the year 2050, this figure may increase to more than 1.3 billion (130 crores). The disease affects people of all ages – men, women, and children.

A study was done regarding the increasing cases of diabetes, in the report of research published in the Lancet journal, the researchers have expressed concern that the cases of diabetes may increase more than two times in the next three decades. This will be a huge strain on the global health sector. Diabetes is overtaking most diseases globally, posing a significant threat to health systems.

Diabetes patients can double in three decades
The study used data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease, in which researchers examined diabetes incidence, health complications, and mortality in 204 countries from 1990 to 2021. Based on this, the risks of diabetes have been estimated till 2050.

The United Nations has said in an estimate that by 2050, some of the world's population may exceed about 9.8 billion (980 million). By that time, almost one in seven people may be at risk of diabetes.

More than half of the population of many countries may be affected
Dr. Stephen Lawrence, a diabetes research specialist at the University of Warwick in the UK, says the researchers used very precise modeling studies, so it's not just guessing. In 2021, 529 million people worldwide were living with diabetes, with a global prevalence of 6.1%. The study estimated that by 2050, the prevalence could increase to more than 43.6% in 204 countries.

Qatar had the highest prevalence of age-related diabetes, with 76% of people aged 75–79 years suffering from the disease in 2021. It is expected to increase further.

The risk is increasing due to obesity
The researchers wrote in the research – Type 2 diabetes, which causes most cases of diabetes, is expected to increase the most. It is a matter of relief that it can be prevented to a great extent. In some cases, early detection and management of the disease can help control its risks significantly.

The factor which is mainly responsible for the increasing cases of diabetes worldwide – the increase in obesity is at the top.

These reasons were also found responsible
In addition to obesity, poor diet, and lifestyle habits have also been found to be major factors for the global increase in the rate of type-2 diabetes. The risk is further exacerbated by the high intake of hypercaloric foods, says Professor Lawrence. Unfortunately, our genes are not made to deal with it. The development of type 2 diabetes requires a combined effort of the individual and the environment.

Apart from ultra-processed foods, physical inactivity is directly increasing obesity which is the cause of diabetes. If this is not controlled, then in the next 50 years, the figures for diabetes can become even more serious.

(PC: Freepik)