World Diabetes Day Awareness 2024

2024 theme (WHO): Breaking barriers, Bridging gaps

World Diabetes Day is a globally recognised event, celebrated on November 14th every year, to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on individuals and communities worldwide. In 2024, the theme is "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps," with a focus on improving access to quality, equitable, and affordable diabetes care for everyone. This year's theme highlights the urgency of reducing disparities in diabetes prevention, treatment, and support, ensuring that individuals everywhere can access the resources they need to manage their condition effectively.

The theme for 2024 - Breaking barriers, Bridging gaps

The theme for World Diabetes Day 2024 is "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps." This theme emphasises the critical need for equitable, comprehensive, and affordable diabetes care for all. It highlights the importance of reducing disparities in access to prevention, treatment, and support, ensuring that individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, can receive the care necessary to manage diabetes effectively.

Key definitions

• Diabetes - Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). It can result from the pancreas not producing enough insulin (Type 1) or the body not using insulin properly (Type 2).
• Hyperglycemia - Also known as raised blood glucose or blood sugar, it is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and can lead to serious damage to various systems in the body.
• Type 1 diabetes - Characterised by deficient insulin production, requires daily insulin administration. The cause and means of prevention are unknown, and it primarily affects people in high-income countries.
• Type 2 diabetes - This type affects how the body uses sugar for energy and can lead to high blood sugar levels if not treated. It is often preventable and can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and regular screenings.
• Gestational diabetes - Hyperglycemia that occurs during pregnancy and requires monitoring and care during pregnancy and beyond.
• Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) and Impaired Fasting Glycaemia (IFG) - Intermediate conditions between normal glucose levels and diabetes. People with IGT or IFG are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Bridging gaps in diabetes care

The central theme of World Diabetes Day 2024 is "Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps." Ensuring equitable access to comprehensive diabetes care is essential for effectively managing the condition and preventing its complications. With nearly 1 in 2 adults with diabetes remaining undiagnosed, this theme underscores the urgent need to bridge healthcare gaps through improved access to early diagnosis, timely treatment, and consistent support. Addressing these disparities is key to reducing the impact of diabetes on individuals and communities worldwide, fostering a future where everyone can access the care they need, regardless of socioeconomic barriers.

Prevention of diabetes

Preventing Type 2 diabetes is a key focus. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy body weight, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet, can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis is also essential to prevent the worst effects of diabetes, and regular check-ups and blood tests can aid in early detection.

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

Understanding the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is vital. While Type 1 diabetes requires daily insulin injections and primarily affects those in high-income countries, Type 2 diabetes is preventable and manageable through lifestyle changes and medication.

Gestational diabetes and intermediate conditions

Gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy, and intermediate conditions like IGT and IFG are also important to recognise. Gestational diabetes can lead to complications during pregnancy and an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes in the future.

Key facts and statistics

• The number of people with diabetes has increased from 108 million in 1980 to over 537 million in 2024, with the highest prevalence in low- and middle-income countries, underscoring global disparities in diabetes care.
• In 2024, diabetes and related complications, including kidney disease, contribute to an estimated 2 million deaths annually worldwide.
• Diabetes-related healthcare expenditure is projected to exceed £1 trillion in 2024, highlighting the economic burden on healthcare systems and the importance of bridging gaps in access to care.
• Over 1.2 million children and adolescents (0-19 years) live with Type 1 diabetes in 2024, often facing unique challenges in accessing continuous care.
• More than 95% of people with diabetes in 2024 have Type 2 diabetes, which frequently remains undiagnosed or inadequately managed due to barriers in healthcare access.

Key points to remember

• In 2024, diabetes affects millions globally, with its prevalence rising, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
• Bridging gaps in access to healthcare and ensuring early diagnosis are essential for effective diabetes management and the prevention of complications.
• Type 2 diabetes, the most common form, remains largely preventable through lifestyle changes.
• Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes have different causes and management approaches, requiring tailored care in 2024.
• Gestational diabetes, along with intermediate conditions like Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) and Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG), also demand attention to prevent progression and ensure comprehensive diabetes management.

Taking action on World Diabetes Day 2024

World Diabetes Day 2024 is a day of awareness and action, providing an opportunity to advocate for breaking barriers and bridging gaps in diabetes care. It calls on us to support diabetes research, raise awareness, and push for equitable access to care globally. This year highlights the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, regardless of their circumstances.

Understanding the different types of diabetes, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting initiatives and organisations are critical steps in the fight against this global health issue. By participating in activities like the #NailingDiabetes challenge and supporting organisations such as Diabetes UK, you can make a meaningful contribution towards creating a future with fair and accessible diabetes care for all.

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