- At least 171 million people worldwide have diabetes. This figure is likely to more than double by 2030.
- In developing countries the number of people with diabetes will increase by 150% in the next 25 years.
- The global increase in diabetes will occur because of population ageing and growth, and because of increasing trends towards obesity, unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles.
- In developed countries most people with diabetes are above the age of retirement, whereas in developing countries those most frequently affected are aged between 35 and 64.
(Source: WHO website 2006)
