Diabetes Crisis Deepens in Southeast Asia: WHO Calls for Lifespan Approach to Care
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A staggering 279 million adults in Southeast Asia are living with diabetes, representing one-third of the global burden of the disease, according to a statement released today by the World Health Association (WHO). The alarming statistic underscores a growing public health crisis,with a significant proportion of cases going undiagnosed or inadequately managed.
A Region Under Pressure
Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disease, poses a severe threat to long-term health, potentially leading to life-threatening damage to the heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes. The WHO reports that only one in three adults with diabetes in the region receives treatment, and alarmingly, less than 15% achieve adequate blood glucose control. This lack of access to care and effective management is driving a surge in complications and preventable deaths.
World Diabetes Day Focus: A Lifespan Viewpoint
This year’s World Diabetes Day, observed with the theme ‘Diabetes across life stages,’ emphasizes the critical need for integrated and equitable care throughout a person’s life. “Every person living with diabetes should have access to integrated care and supportive environments and policies that promote health, dignity and self-management,” a senior WHO official stated. The call highlights the importance of tailoring prevention, diagnosis, and management strategies to specific age groups and individual needs.
Targeted Care Across the Lifespan
Effective diabetes care requires a nuanced approach, recognizing the unique challenges faced by different populations:
- Children: Timely and tailored care at home and school is essential for supporting growth, learning, and overall well-being.
- Pregnant Women: Managing diabetes during pregnancy is crucial for the health of both mother and child.
- older Adults: Ongoing support and education are vital for managing the condition and minimizing the risk of complications.
– Pro tip: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
While type 1 diabetes, often diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, currently has no preventative measures, it can be effectively managed.
Regional Initiatives Gain Momentum
Southeast Asian nations are actively responding to the diabetes challenge through collaborative efforts. In 2023, Member States adopted the ‘SEAHEARTS’ resolution, aimed at accelerating the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases – a common comorbidity of diabetes – through the implementation of the WHO HEARTS technical package in primary healthcare settings.
Further bolstering these efforts,the ‘Colombo Call for Action’ endorsed in 2024,outlines practical steps to reduce diabetes risks and ensure access to quality treatment. This includes prioritizing affordable access to essential resources like insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring devices through national health coverage.
Progress in Treatment Access
Significant strides are being made in improving access to care. According to the WHO, most Member States now have evidence-based protocols for diabetes management, and at least one hypoglycemic drug is available at health facilities.More than 33 million people with diabetes across the region are now receiving protocol-based management in public health facilities.
– Did you know? More than 33 million people with diabetes across Southeast Asia are now receiving protocol-based management in public health facilities.
On World Diabetes Day, the WHO is urging governments, non-governmental organizations, healthcare professionals, and communities to renew their commitment and intensify efforts to address the growing burden of diabetes across all life stages.
