NEW YORK, Sept 9:  Nearly 44% of people aged 15 and older living with diabetes are unaware they have the condition, according to a new global study published Monday in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.

The study, which analyzed data from 204 countries and territories between 2000 and 2023, highlights a major public health concern: diabetes may often remain undiagnosed for years, particularly among younger adults. Lead author Lauryn Stafford noted that most undiagnosed cases are type 2 diabetes.

Globally, around one in nine adults lives with diabetes, according to the International Diabetes Federation. In the United States, 11.6% of adults had diabetes as of 2021, the American Diabetes Association reports.

Stafford said 56% of people with diabetes are aware of their condition, with significant variation by geography and income level. Higher-income countries generally have better diagnosis rates than low- and middle-income nations.

Younger adults are at a greater risk of undiagnosed diabetes

The study found that people under 35 are far less likely to be diagnosed than older adults. Only 20% of young adults with diabetes were aware of their condition. Routine screenings are less common for younger age groups, as organizations like the American Diabetes Association generally recommend annual glucose checks starting at age 35.

“People can live with elevated glucose levels for many years without knowing,” Stafford said, noting that many are diagnosed only after complications arise. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent or delay long-term health issues such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss, experts said.

Symptoms and screening

Symptoms of diabetes can include increased thirst or hunger, frequent urination, unexpected weight loss, blurry vision, and fatigue, though many individuals remain asymptomatic in the early stages, said Dr. Rita Kalyani, chief scientific and medical officer at the American Diabetes Association. She recommended that those with a family history or symptoms undergo glucose screening.

Treatment and management gaps

Globally, only about 40% of people receiving diabetes treatment achieve optimal blood sugar control, Stafford noted. Despite the availability of medications such as insulin, Metformin, and GLP-1 receptor agonists, management is often complicated by coexisting conditions like hypertension or chronic kidney disease.

Prevention of type 2 diabetes

While type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, type 2 diabetes can be reduced through lifestyle changes. Experts recommend limiting red and processed meats, reducing ultraprocessed foods, increasing consumption of whole foods such as fruits and nuts, and incorporating regular physical activity. Even 15 minutes of brisk walking daily can help lower the risk of developing diabetes and other chronic diseases, Stafford said.

The study underscores the need for increased screening, early diagnosis, and treatment adherence, as well as preventive measures targeting risk factors for diabetes.