Estimated 24.6 Million Adults Living With Diabetes in Africa.
WHO: Estimated 24.6 Million Adults Living With Diabetes in Africa Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja An estimated 24.6 million adults aged 20 to 79 years are living with diabetes in the African Region in 2024, a figure projected to reach 59.5 million Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja An estimated 24.6 million adults aged 20 to 79 years are living with diabetes in the African Region in 2024, a figure projected to reach 59.5 million by 2050, World Health Organisation (WHO) has said.
Mohamed Janabi, disclosed this in a message to commemorate World Diabetes Day 2026 themed ‘Early Action on Diabetes’.
Janabi said diabetes is increasingly affecting the lives and livelihoods of millions across Africa, yet many remain unaware they have the condition until serious complications develop.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, nearly three out of four adults living with diabetes in Africa remain undiagnosed, the highest proportion globally, putting many at risk of kidney failure, blindness, cardiovascular disease and lower-limb amputations. “Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent complications, reduce suffering and save lives,” Janabi said. He called on individuals, communities, governments, health workers and partners across WHO African Region to strengthen awareness, promote early diagnosis and ensure access to quality, affordable diabetes care. He urged the public to know symptoms and act early, listing increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, persistent tiredness and blurred vision as warning signs, and advised people to seek testing and medical advice promptly.
MSEApp News is publishing an original rewrite of this tip for readers, based on reporting associated with THISDAY.