Inequalities may raise the number of diabetics to 1.3 billion by 2050

2023-06-23 10:34:08

Diabetes cases in the world could reach 1.3 billion in 2050more than double that in 2021, if effective strategies are not foreseen, according to new studies, which warn that structural racism and geographic inequality are accelerating this trend.

In addition, standardized diabetes rates are projected to increase in all the countries in the next three decades, highlights a series of studieswith Spanish participation, which publish The Lancet and The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology.

“Cascade of widening inequity” accelerating the global #diabetes crisis, experts warn.

Explore findings from a new Lancet–@TheLancetEndo Series: pic.twitter.com/sSzEihAJCX

— The Lancet (@TheLancet) June 22, 2023

The increase in cases of this disease is expected to be due to the rise in the type 2 diabeteswhich will be caused by an increase in the prevalence of obesity and for the demographic changes.

In 2021 there were 529 million people living with diabetes and type 2 diabetes represented 90% of all the prevalence of this disease, which is expected to also be responsible for the possible increase in casesup to 1.3 billion, in 2050.

The increase in cases of this disease is expected to be due to the rise in type 2 diabetes

In addition, “the structural racism suffered by minority ethnic groups and the geographic inequality suffered by low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are accelerating the increase in the rates of diabetes, disease and death throughout the world,” it points out. The Lancet.

Diabetes rates among ethnic minority groups in high-income countries, for example in USAare 1.5 times higher than those of their white counterparts.

In addition, the mortality rates by this disease in low- and middle-income countries double those in high-income countries, indicates the series of studies, in which the Spanish Institute of Health Carlos III has participated, among others.

“He structural racism and geographic inequality amplify and aggravate the social determinants of health and affect the care and treatment that people with diabetes have access to”, highlights The Lancet in an editorial.

Mortality rates from this disease in low- and middle-income countries are double those in high-income countries

“This translates into a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes and worse clinical outcomes in populations experiencing current and historical racism and oppression,” he adds.

The covid-19 pandemic it has also amplified inequality in diabetes, with people with diabetes 50% more likely to develop a severe infection and twice as likely to die, especially if they belong to minority ethnic groups.

Estimates indicate that more than three-quarters of adults with diabetes will be living in LMICs by 2045, of whom less than 1 in 10 will receive comprehensive guideline-based care.

The most recent and comprehensive estimates show that the current global prevalence rate is 6.1%, making diabetes one of the top 10 causes of death and disability.

Worrying growth rate

By region, the highest rate is 9.3% in the north of Africa and the Middle East, and is expected to increase to 16.8% in 2050; in Latin America and the Caribbean it is estimated that it will grow to 11.3%.

Diabetes was especially evident in people aged 65 and over in all countries, recording a prevalence rate of more than 20% for that demographic worldwide.

“The rapid rate at which diabetes is growing is not only alarming, but also a challenge for all healthcare systems around the world, especially considering that this disease also increases the risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke,” he says. Liane Ongone of the signatories from the University of Washington.

The public may believe that type 2 diabetes is simply associated with obesity, lack of exercise or an inadequate diet, but other factors such as genetics, logistical, social and financial barriers within the structural system of a country, especially in those of low and middle income.

Inequalities affect access to screening and treatment and the availability of health services

These inequalities have an impact on access to screening and treatment and on the availability of health services, he says. Lauryn Staffordfrom the same university.

Another study focuses on potential interventions and highlights the importance of equitable partnerships, building community capacity and trust, ecosystem change, and improving the clinical practice environment.

These initiatives remain limited and often difficult to find funding for, so “a much larger and more ambitious program is needed to address centuries of injustices that have followed the well-trodden paths of power and colonization,” the editorial adds. .

Rights: Creative Commons.