Journal of Diabetes Endocrine Education and Research
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Research Article

Published on 18 Oct 2026

Diabetes is Major Global Health Threat

Siniša Franjić

  1. 1Independent Researcher

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Abstract

Diabetes presents a significant threat worldwide. Estimates indicate that around one in every eleven adults has this

condition. It is important to consider the insights from the World Health Organization when talking about diabetes on

a global level. In brief, the statistics are concerning.

Over 40% of individuals with diabetes are unaware they have it. Common signs of this illness include feeling very

thirsty, needing to urinate often, fatigue, and having blurred vision.

Diabetes is a long-lasting metabolic condition marked by high blood sugar levels, which can cause severe damage to

essential organs such as the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves over time. The most prevalent type is type 2

diabetes, primarily affecting adults, and arises when the body either resists insulin or cannot produce enough of it. In

the last thirty years, the rate of type 2 diabetes has surged dramatically across countries of varying income levels.

Meanwhile, type 1 diabetes, historically referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic

illness where the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin. For those living with this condition, having access to

affordable treatments, particularly insulin, is vital for their survival.

Currently, about 830 million people globally are diagnosed with diabetes, with most residing in low- and middle

income countries. More than half of these individuals do not receive treatment. B

Keywords: Diabetes, Complications, Global Threat, Diagnosis, Health