Nearly Half of People with Diabetes Don’t Know It—A Sobering Health Wake-Up Call

A recent analysis published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology warns that nearly half of individuals living with diabetes are undiagnosed—a silent health crisis sweeping across the globe (CNN).

The Hidden Epidemic

The study, conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, found that 44% of people aged 15 and older with diabetes are unaware they have it. Without proper diagnosis, these individuals are at high risk of serious health complications that could otherwise be prevented with early treatment and lifestyle changes.

Global Disparities in Awareness

Diagnosis rates vary significantly by region. In wealthier countries like the U.S., diabetes screening is more common, but millions are still slipping through the cracks. In lower-income regions, such as central sub-Saharan Africa, awareness and testing are even more limited, leaving countless people vulnerable to life-threatening outcomes.

Treatment Doesn’t Always Mean Control

Even when diabetes is diagnosed, managing it effectively remains a major challenge. The study revealed that only 42% of patients undergoing treatment have their blood sugar under control. That means the majority are still at risk of complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, or cardiovascular problems—despite receiving medical care.

The Numbers Behind the Crisis

Lauryn Stafford, lead author from the University of Washington’s School of Medicine, put the issue in stark perspective:

“By 2050, 1.3 billion people are expected to be living with diabetes, and if nearly half don’t know they have a serious and potentially deadly health condition, it could easily become a silent epidemic.”

Why This Matters

Diabetes is often called a “silent disease” because its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for less serious issues. But untreated diabetes can lead to:

• Heart disease and stroke

• Nerve damage and neuropathy

• Kidney failure

• Vision loss and blindness

• Poor circulation leading to amputations

This makes early detection, proper treatment, and consistent monitoring absolutely essential.

Steps Toward Better Outcomes

• Expand access to screenings such as A1C tests and glucose monitoring.

• Increase education and awareness, especially among high-risk groups.

• Improve treatment plans and monitoring tools to ensure patients achieve better control of their blood sugar levels.

• Encourage use of modern diabetes technology, such as Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps, which help patients and doctors manage diabetes more effectively.

Taking Control with DirectDiabetes.com

Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At DirectDiabetes.com, we make it easier for patients and doctors to take control of diabetes. We provide:

• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for real-time tracking

• Insulin pumps and testing supplies shipped directly to patients

• Insurance billing support so managing costs is simple

• A knowledgeable team dedicated to helping patients and providers succeed

If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, the right tools and support can change everything. Visit DirectDiabetes.com to discover how to take charge of your health and get your diabetes under control today.

Direct Diabetes has been helping people with diabetes for nearly 30 years by mailing the supplies they need directly to their home, and helping them avoid the hassle of having to go to a pharmacy. From Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) to insulin pumps and testing supplies, our goal is to take the stress out of managing diabetes so patients can focus on living healthier, fuller lives. We work directly with doctors and insurance companies to make the process simple and affordable—and we’re proud to be a trusted partner in the diabetes community.

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