1.39cr diabetics, 39pc unaware

The number of people living with diabetes is rising in Bangladesh. According to the 2025 updated data of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), around 1.39 crore people aged between 20 and 79 were living with diabetes in the country in 2024. Of them, 39.1 per cent were unaware that they had the disease.

Bangladesh ranks eighth in the world in terms of the number of people with diabetes. The IDF has projected that the number could reach 2.31 crore by 2050.

Against this backdrop, World Diabetes Day is being observed today (Saturday, November 14). This year’s theme is “No Delay, Take Action Now on Diabetes”.

In a message marking the day, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said diabetes had become one of the major public health challenges worldwide. The number of people affected by the disease is also increasing in Bangladesh, which is a matter of concern.

He said people with diabetes could lead normal and productive lives through proper treatment and regular care. He also urged people to undergo regular health check-ups, maintain a balanced diet and exercise to prevent the disease.

Experts say irregular medication, lack of regular testing, delays in adjusting treatment and limited availability of essential supplies, including insulin, are major barriers to diabetes control.

Professor Dr Faria Afsana, Bangladesh Endocrine Society President and Head of the Department of Endocrinology at BIRDEMP, said at a press conference on Thursday that everyone aged 35 or above should undergo diabetes screening. Younger people with obesity, a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or a history of gestational diabetes should also be tested.

She said people with pre-diabetes and those at high risk should reduce their body weight by 5 to 7 per cent and engage in brisk walking or other physical exercise for at least 150 minutes a week. They should also undergo an HbA1c test every three months to assess the effectiveness of treatment.