New Delhi [India], November 14 (ANI): The World Health Organization’s South-East Asia Region marked World Diabetes Day on Friday with a renewed call for urgent and coordinated action to address the rising burden of diabetes, which now affects more than 279 million adults in the region — nearly one-third of the global total.
Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge for WHO South-East Asia, said diabetes continues to pose a serious challenge due to widespread late diagnoses, insufficient treatment and poor control of blood glucose levels. She noted that only one in three adults with diabetes in the region receives treatment, and fewer than 15 percent are able to keep their blood glucose adequately controlled.
This year’s theme, “Diabetes Across Life Stages,” underscores the need for equitable, age-appropriate care from childhood through old age.
According to the WHO, children living with diabetes require timely and tailored support at home and school, pregnant women need proper management to safeguard their health and that of their babies, and older adults need continuous guidance to prevent life-threatening complications.
While type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, Boehme said it can be effectively managed. She added that the risk of type 2 diabetes can be significantly reduced through regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and avoidance of tobacco and alcohol. For those already diagnosed, proper medication and lifestyle changes can help prevent complications.
Boehme highlighted regional progress driven by collective commitments. In 2023, Member States adopted the SEAHEARTS resolution to strengthen prevention and control of diabetes using the WHO HEARTS technical package in primary health care. In 2024, the Colombo Call for Action was endorsed to expand access to quality treatment, including insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring devices, through national health benefit packages.
Most countries in the region have now implemented evidence-based, drug- and dose-specific diabetes management protocols, with at least one hypoglycemic medicine available in public health facilities. More than 33 million people with diabetes across Southeast Asia are currently receiving protocol-based care in public systems.
Calling for greater collaboration, Boehme urged governments, civil society organisations, health professionals and communities to intensify efforts. She said World Diabetes Day should serve as a reminder of the shared responsibility to reduce the growing burden of diabetes and ensure that people of all ages receive the care they need to live healthy, dignified lives.
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