Study finds millions of people live with undiagnosed diabetes

Health & Fitness
9 Sep 2025 • 8:15 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A new study has found that almost half (44 per cent) of people aged 15 and older with diabetes worldwide are undiagnosed.
  • The research, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal, analysed data from 204 countries and territories collected between 2000 and 2023.
  • Lauryn Stafford, the lead author, stated that most undiagnosed cases are Type 2 diabetes, with only 20 per cent of young adults with the condition being aware of it.
  • Globally, an estimated 830 million people have diabetes, and over half are not receiving treatment, indicating major challenges in diagnosis and management, especially in low and middle-income countries.
  • Many individuals remain undiagnosed for years until complications develop, as symptoms can be subtle, emphasising the need for testing if potential signs are present.

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