India Holds Second Place in Global Diabetes Numbers with 90 Million Cases
A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal has revealed startling figures about diabetes worldwide. India stands as the country with the second highest number of adults living with diabetes in 2024. The nation recorded a staggering 90 million cases among people aged 20 to 79 years.
Global Rankings and Projections
China leads the list with 148 million diabetes cases. The United States follows India in third place with 39 million cases. Researchers from the International Diabetes Federation and Indian institutions like the India Diabetes Research Foundation contributed to this comprehensive analysis.
The study projects that Pakistan might overtake the United States by 2050. This shift highlights the growing burden of diabetes in developing nations.
Prevalence Across Income Groups
Middle-income countries show the highest diabetes prevalence rates. Approximately 11.46 percent of adults in these nations have diabetes. High-income countries report a 10.21 percent prevalence rate. Low-income countries have the lowest rate at 7.47 percent.
Over 80 percent of the world's diabetes population lives in low and middle-income countries. These regions are expected to witness more than 95 percent of the global increase in cases by 2050.
Study Methodology and Findings
The eleventh edition of the International Diabetes Federation Diabetes Atlas provided these estimates. Researchers analyzed data from 246 studies conducted between 2005 and 2024. They covered 215 countries and territories to create a detailed global picture.
In 2024, more than 11 percent of the world's adult population had diabetes. That translates to 589 million adults aged 20 to 79. By 2050, nearly 13 percent of adults, or 853 million people, are projected to be affected.
Key Demographic Trends
The study identified several important patterns in diabetes distribution. Prevalence peaks at nearly 25 percent among adults aged 75 to 79 years. Men show higher rates than women. Urban areas report more cases than rural regions.
Population growth, aging demographics, and ongoing urbanization drive these increases. These factors contribute significantly to the rising number of diabetes cases globally.
Call for Action and Support
Researchers emphasize that the diabetes epidemic continues unchecked since the millennium. They urge stronger efforts to slow its progression. Tailored strategies across different countries and population groups are essential.
Monitoring the diabetes burden requires better support for data collection. Resource-poor settings need particular attention as they face substantial increases in prevalence.
The study serves as a crucial reminder of the growing health challenge. It underscores the need for focused interventions and sustained public health efforts worldwide.
