How many people has insulin saved?
It is difficult to determine the exact number of people that insulin has saved, as there is no comprehensive data available. However, it is widely recognized that insulin has had a profound impact on the survival and well-being of individuals with diabetes, particularly those with type 1 diabetes.
Before the discovery and widespread availability of insulin in the early 20th century, type 1 diabetes was a life-threatening disease. Individuals with type 1 diabetes were unable to produce insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels, leading to high blood sugar levels and severe complications. Without effective treatment, these complications often resulted in death.
With the advent of insulin therapy, the life expectancy and overall health outcomes of individuals with diabetes have improved dramatically. Insulin has enabled people with type 1 diabetes to manage their blood glucose levels, preventing or delaying the development of serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage.
It has also been estimated that the life expectancy of individuals with diabetes increased by an average of 30-50 years due to the introduction of insulin.
Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that insulin has saved countless lives and improved the quality of life for millions of individuals worldwide.