Why diabetes is a government health priority?

Diabetes is a significant government health priority due its prevalence, associated complications, and socioeconomic burden it poses on individuals, healthcare systems, and societies. Here's why diabetes is considered a public health priority by governments:

1. Prevalence:

Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions globally. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there were an estimated 537 million adults (20-79 years) living with diabetes in 2021, and this number is projected to rise to 783 million by 2045. The widespread nature of diabetes makes it a major public health concern.

2. Chronic Complications:

Diabetes can lead to various complications that can significantly impact individuals' health and well-being. These complications include cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage, and amputation. The management and treatment of these complications require substantial healthcare resources.

3. Healthcare Costs:

Diabetes is a costly disease to manage. The healthcare expenses associated with diabetes include medications, hospitalization, medical devices, and long-term care. In the United States alone, the total estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes was $327 billion in 2017. The financial burden of diabetes is a major challenge for healthcare systems and governments.

4. Social and Economic Impact:

Diabetes can have significant social and economic consequences. Individuals with diabetes may experience reduced productivity at work, job loss, and increased absenteeism, leading to financial hardship and a diminished quality of life. The impact on families and society as a whole is substantial.

5. Premature Mortality:

Diabetes is a leading cause of premature mortality, contributing to a large number of avoidable deaths worldwide. The complications of diabetes, such as cardiovascular diseases and kidney failure, can significantly reduce life expectancy and result in premature deaths.

6. Prevention and Control:

While diabetes management is essential, prevention plays a crucial role in controlling the diabetes epidemic. Government initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, nutrition education, physical activity, and early detection of diabetes can significantly reduce the burden of the disease.

7. Equity and Access to Care:

Governments have a responsibility to ensure that all individuals have equitable access to diabetes prevention, diagnosis, and management services. Addressing disparities in healthcare access and ensuring affordable care for people with diabetes is vital to reducing health inequalities.

In summary, diabetes is a government health priority due to its high prevalence, associated complications, high healthcare costs, social and economic impact, premature mortality, the potential for prevention, and the need for equitable access to care. By addressing diabetes as a public health priority, governments can improve the health and well-being of their populations and reduce the associated burdens on healthcare systems and societies.