Diabetes

World Diabetes Day 2008 More information Fact Sheet A diabetes overview

WHO/Marko Kokic

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Hyperglycaemia, or raised blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels.

QUICK DIABETES FACTS

Diabetes causes about 5% of all deaths globally each year.

80% of people with diabetes live in low and middle income countries.

Most people with diabetes in low and middle income countries are middle-aged (45-64), not elderly (65+).

Diabetes deaths are likely to increase by more than 50% in the next 10 years without urgent action.

THE FACES OF DIABETES

Zahida's story: living with diabetes

Ten facts about diabetes

WHO DIABETES PROGRAMME

The mission of the WHO Diabetes Programme is to prevent diabetes whenever possible and, where not possible, to minimize complications and maximize quality of life.

The core functions of the WHO Diabetes Programme are to set norms and standards, promote surveillance, encourage prevention, raise awareness and strengthen prevention and control.