Global Diabetes Crisis: Understanding, Addressing, and Collaborating for a Healthier Future

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Growing Incidence of Diabetes around the World

On this World Diabetes Day, it is more crucial than ever to shed light on the staggering global impact of this chronic condition. A recent study published in The Lancet reveals a startling reality: over half a billion people around the world are currently grappling with diabetes, and this number is expected to skyrocket to 1.3 billion within the next three decades. Regardless of gender, age, or nationality, diabetes knows no bounds and is becoming an increasingly prevalent global health concern. With diabetes ranked among the top 10 leading causes of death and disability, it is imperative that we raise awareness about its growing prevalence and take action to combat its far-reaching effects.

Diabetes is not a single-issue health challenge; it encompasses a wide array of risk factors and complexities that extend beyond common misconceptions. According to Dr. Liane Ong, the lead author and Lead Research Scientist at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), the rapid growth of diabetes is alarming and places a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. This disease not only increases the risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke but is also influenced by a multitude of factors, including genetics, logistical challenges, social barriers, and financial constraints. As Lauryn Stafford, a second author and Post-Bachelor Fellow at IHME, underscores, addressing diabetes requires understanding the nuanced disparities that exist across different populations.

By 2050, more than 1.31 billion individuals will be living with diabetes worldwide. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for action to address a disease that not only causes life-altering morbidity and high rates of mortality but also interacts with and exacerbates many other health conditions. The predominant driver of this increasing prevalence is type 2 diabetes, a condition that accounted for 90% of all diabetes cases in 2021. The rise in type 2 diabetes is intricately linked to the escalating prevalence of obesity and shifting demographics. The burden of diabetes is disproportionately shaped by social risk factors, including high body mass index, dietary risks, environmental and occupational hazards, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and low physical activity. These risk factors are deeply intertwined with the environments we create and the resources we allocate, perpetuating an obesogenic environment and societal inequities.

IDR Joining the Fight and being Involved in the Fight against Diabetes

IDR recognizes the significance of research in advancing our understanding of diabetes and improving patient care. In line with this commitment, IDR has undertaken various initiatives to enable research in the field of diabetes. We remain committed to promoting research initiatives that advance diabetes care, striving to make significant contributions to the global battle against this chronic condition. Through such research, we work towards more effective prevention, treatment, and management strategies for diabetes. The following case studies are successful research projects that IDR has completed in collaboration with global healthcare organizations.

World Diabetes Day serves as a poignant reminder of the need to take concrete actions to combat this burgeoning global health crisis. To tackle the multifaceted challenge of diabetes, it is essential to invest in comprehensive public health initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, access to quality healthcare, and early diagnosis. Additionally, raising awareness about the social determinants of diabetes is crucial, as it highlights the importance of addressing disparities in healthcare access, education, and economic opportunities. Moreover, promoting research and innovation in diabetes prevention and management is imperative to develop effective strategies that can mitigate the increasing prevalence of this condition.

Case Study - APAC:

The study conducted in collaboration with a prominent healthcare system sought to understand the diabetes patient’s journey and the overall management of the disease. The study aimed to uncover both rational and emotional aspects of decision-making processes, the factors influencing these decisions, as well as the drivers and barriers experienced by diabetes patients. Additionally, it aimed to gain insights into the perceptions and roles of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients regarding the blood glucose monitoring devices available in the market. A key focus was to identify unmet needs within the current market offerings of these devices and to determine impactful promotional strategies that would benefit patients.

To achieve these goals, IDR engaged with a total of 40 participants, conducting interviews in Thailand and Indonesia. The recruitment process involved tapping into an existing network of patients and employing creative approaches to assemble a diverse group of individuals with varying experiences and perspectives related to diabetes management and blood glucose monitoring. Through these interviews, the study gathered valuable data to meet its research objectives and gain a comprehensive understanding of the diabetes landscape in these two countries.

Case Study - EMEA:

Another notable effort has been in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region, where we recently conducted a study aimed at understanding the perspectives of healthcare professionals (HCPs) on unmet needs and treatment preferences when managing patients with diabetes in the United Kingdom.

IDR conducted a quantitative study to gather insights from healthcare professionals (HCPs) regarding unmet needs and treatment preferences when managing diabetes patients in the United Kingdom. This research involved the completion of 75 surveys within a three-week timeframe, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in diabetes care.

To ensure the study's diversity and relevance, IDR collaborated with prominent UK medical institutions, including Barts NHS Trust, University College London Hospitals (UCLH), and Milton Keynes NHS Trust, recruiting various specialists such as Diabetologists and endocrinologists. The data obtained from this research not only enhances our knowledge of diabetes management but also informs evidence-based practices and decision-making in the field.

Case Study - Americas:

IDR recently conducted a comprehensive study on Fundus Camera Imaging for Diabetic Retinopathy involving 90-minute remote interviews with healthcare professionals (HCPs) from tech-enabled primary care settings. Our primary focus was to gain insights into user attitudes toward registries, clinical trial research, recruitment, and referrals within the primary care context. Participants, including PCPs, RNs, MAs, or Clinical Administrators, were carefully selected from specified states and primary care settings. Notable qualifications, such as experience with Diabetic Retinopathy imaging and handling a significant number of diabetes patients, were considered. The study sessions provided valuable data, offering nuanced perspectives on primary care dynamics and user perceptions. The outcomes of this study contribute to our ongoing commitment to advancing diabetes care research and strategies for effective prevention, treatment, and management.

In the face of the growing global incidence of diabetes, the importance of taking collective action cannot be overstated. The staggering reality of over half a billion people worldwide currently grappling with this chronic condition, with an expected surge to 1.3 billion within the next three decades, underscores the urgency of addressing this significant global health concern. The multifaceted nature of diabetes, influenced by genetics, logistics, social barriers, and financial constraints, calls for a comprehensive approach.

As we commemorate World Diabetes Day, we must acknowledge that tackling diabetes requires not just raising awareness but also investing in public health initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, accessible healthcare, and early diagnosis. Recognizing the importance of research in advancing our understanding of diabetes and improving patient care, IDR has been actively engaged in enabling research initiatives worldwide. The case studies conducted in the APAC EMEA and Americas regions demonstrate IDR's commitment to gathering insights and data that contribute to informed decision-making and evidence-based practices in diabetes management. Through research and collaborative efforts, we aim to make substantial contributions to the global battle against diabetes, working towards more effective prevention, treatment, and management strategies for this chronic condition.