Understanding diabetes is the first step towards prevention, early detection, and effective management. Learn about the disease, its impact, and how to protect yourself.
Diabetes is a chronic disease leading to increased glucose (sugar) levels due to insufficient insulin production or if the body is not able to use the produced insulin.
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Hyperglycaemia, or raised blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels.
The impact of diabetes is significant and if not managed well it can lead to several complications.
As per Global Burden of Disease Collaborative Network. Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Results. Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.
Direct deaths caused by diabetes in 2019
Of all diabetes deaths occurred before the age of 70 years
Kidney disease deaths caused by diabetes
Raised blood glucose causes around 20% of cardiovascular deaths
According to WHO (World Health Organization)
People above 18 years suffering from diabetes (type 2)
Prediabetics at higher risk of developing diabetes
People unaware of their diabetic status
Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
Understanding the serious health implications of uncontrolled diabetes
Adults with diabetes have a two- to three-fold increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Combined with reduced blood flow, neuropathy (nerve damage) in the feet increases the chance of foot ulcers, infection, and limb amputation.
An important cause of blindness that occurs as a result of long-term accumulated damage to the small blood vessels in the retina.
Diabetes is among the leading causes of kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation.
Diabetic neuropathy can cause pain, numbness, and problems with digestion, urination, and circulation.
High blood sugar can damage blood vessels throughout the body, affecting circulation and organ function.
More than 50% of people are unaware of their diabetic status. Early detection and proper management can prevent serious complications and improve quality of life.