Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in the WHO European Region, affecting at least 64 million adults and around 300 000 children and adolescents. In 2019 alone, diabetes caused approximately 186 000 deaths in the Region. The number of deaths attributable to diabetes has been increasing and is expected to double from 2005 to 2030. Despite these alarming figures, an estimated 1 in 3 people living with diabetes remains undiagnosed, and up to half of those diagnosed do not meet their treatment targets. This gap in diagnosis and treatment highlights the urgent need for action.
To address these challenges, 5 global diabetes coverage targets were developed following the 2021 World Health Assembly. Their aim is to reduce the risk of diabetes and move towards a world where all people diagnosed with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable, and quality treatment and care. Quality treatment and care includes a holistic approach that addresses both the medical and personal needs of people living with diabetes.
World Diabetes Day 2024 brings attention to the importance of personalized care for millions of people living with diabetes in the Region. Research shows that patient education plays a crucial role in the management of chronic noncommunicable diseases at both population and individual level, which is why person-centred, tailored diabetes care is essential.
Lived experience enhancing clinical decision-making
Addressing the actual needs of people can transform the experience from one of isolation and fear to one of support and empowerment. By focusing on what people with diabetes truly need to improve their quality of life, this year’s theme reinforces the message that diabetes is no longer an overwhelming burden, but a condition that people can confidently manage.
The personal journeys of Cajsa, Iryna, Jean, Konstantina, and Erik shed light on these issues. The story of Cajsa, who has been living with type 1 diabetes since she was 13, highlights the importance of incorporating the perspectives of those with lived experiences to enhance clinical decision-making. The insights shared by Iryna, living with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years, and Jean, struggling with a one-size-fits-all approach to care, demonstrate the power of personalized treatment and support. Erik’s journey with type 2 diabetes and Konstantina’s experience as a young diabetes patient further underscore the need for empathy, psychological support and individualized care. Their stories remind us that effective diabetes management requires more than just medication – it needs a holistic approach that empowers people to take control of their health and lives.
Measuring the global diabetes targets in the WHO European Region
WHO has set ambitious goals to improve diabetes care worldwide by 2030. Countries of the WHO European Region are taking steps to measure and enhance progress towards these goals, as shown in new country case studies.
The 5 Global Diabetes Targets are:
- 80% of people with diabetes are diagnosed;
- 80% of people with diagnosed diabetes have good control of glycaemia;
- 80% of people with diagnosed diabetes have good control of blood pressure;
- 60% of people with diabetes of 40 years or older receive statins (medicines that can help lower the level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood); and
- 100% of people with type 1 diabetes have access to affordable insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring.
Read more about the experiences of measuring the targets in Finland, Germany and Tajikistan.