The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised an alarm over the rising prevalence of diabetes in Africa, warning that the number of people living with the condition could more than double by 2045 if immediate interventions are not implemented.
Speaking on World Diabetes Day 2024, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, revealed that over 24 million adults in the region are currently living with diabetes, with half of them undiagnosed. Without decisive action, this figure is expected to surge to 54 million, marking the highest projected increase globally.
“This poses a significant dual health and economic burden, including catastrophic spending by individuals to control their disease,” Ms. Moeti said.
She highlighted that diabetes care in Africa remains severely underfunded, accounting for just one percent of the region’s health expenditure. Health systems in Africa, traditionally designed to tackle infectious diseases, are ill-equipped to manage chronic conditions like diabetes.
“Managing diabetes requires a sustained effort to balance physical health activity, healthy diet, and mental well-being,” she added, emphasizing the need for comprehensive prevention strategies targeting risk factors such as obesity, poor diet, and physical inactivity.
Ms. Moeti called for greater community engagement to reduce stigma around diabetes and foster supportive systems, urging governments to prioritize investment in diabetes care to avert a looming health crisis.
The WHO’s warning underscores the urgent need for a region-wide overhaul of health policies and increased awareness to stem the tide of diabetes in Africa.
