NEWS – A study published in The Lancet Global Health (2019 data, released Aug 2025) reveals that 1 in 5 Indians aged 45+ has diabetes. Alarmingly, 40% of these cases remain undiagnosed, highlighting a silent public health crisis.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Findings

• Survey Base: Data from the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) covering ~60,000 adults aged 45+ (2017–2019).
• Undiagnosed Burden: 20 million Indians have undiagnosed diabetes; 8% of elderly (60+) remain unaware.
• Gender Parity: Prevalence similar in men (19.6%) and women (20.1%).
• Urban-Rural Divide: Urban prevalence (30%) is double that of rural (15%).
• Geographic Variations:
  • Highest Rates: Chandigarh (36.9%), Kerala (36%), Puducherry (36%).
  • Largest Patient Numbers: Tamil Nadu (6.1M), Maharashtra (5.8M), Uttar Pradesh (4.7M).

About Diabetes

• Definition: Endocrine disorder caused by insufficient insulin secretion (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type 2).
• Emerging Trend: Type 2 cases in obese adolescents rising; CBSE recommends “sugar boards” in schools.
• New Recognition: Type 5 diabetes—affecting lean, malnourished youth in low-income countries—now officially recognised by IDF.