A staggering 422 million people worldwide are grappling with diabetes, with the majority residing in low- and middle-income countries. The disease claims approximately 1.5 million lives annually with numbers projected to increase.
In Europe, diabetes affects 64 million adults and 300,000 children and adolescents. The continent witnessed 186,000 diabetes-related deaths in 2019, a figure expected to double by 2030. One-third of those living with diabetes remain undiagnosed, while up to half struggle to meet treatment targets.
It is estimated that by 2045, 1 in 10 Europeans may develop diabetes, fuelled by aging populations and rising obesity rates. The Region already has the highest burden of type 1 diabetes globally. While in India, at least 77 million people above 18 years suffer from type 2 diabetes and 25 million prediabetics with over 50% of the population with diabetes are unaware of their condition.
We spoke with Dr Vimal Upreti, Additional Director of the Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida and discussed the topics, precautions, and related aspects. Excerpts Poor Diet increases diabetes risk Dr Upreti: Increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes is not only caused by genetic factors but is also a consequence of poor lifestyle, mostly on the level of dietary habits. With urbanisation and the trend of diets towards artificial sweeteners and high-calorie snacks, type 2 diabetes cases are prevalent.
An early understanding of nutritiona.