In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 countries with the highest rates of diabetes. If you wish to learn about more, head straight to the 32 Countries with the Highest Rates of Diabetes.
5. Northern Mariana Islands
Diabetes Rate: 23.4%
The Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) faces high rates of diabetes, particularly among its indigenous population. Twenty-one percent of Carolinian adults and twenty-five percent of Chamorro adults in the CNMI have diabetes, with females representing 58% of cases among the indigenous population. Diabetes primarily affects individuals aged 20 to 79. The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation, which generated over $55 million in revenue in FY2018, relies on Medicaid and federal grants to fund healthcare initiatives, addressing various health concerns beyond diabetes, including tuberculosis, substance abuse, and mental health problems.
4. New Caledonia
Diabetes Rate: 23.4%
New Caledonia stands fourth among countries with the highest rates of diabetes, particularly among individuals aged 20 to 79. Studies reveal higher rates among part-Polynesians compared to Melanesians, especially in rural areas, suggesting potential genetic influences. Type 1 Diabetes is increasing at a rate of 5.5% annually. Gender disparities exist in prevalence, but age and obesity do not significantly contribute to differences between ethnic groups.
3. Kuwait
Diabetes Rate: 24.9%
Kuwait faces a significant public health challenge with a high prevalence of diabetes. Studies indicate an overall adjusted prevalence of 19.1%, with prediabetes at 13.5%. Men have a higher prevalence than women, and rates increase sharply with age, reaching 64.8% in adults aged 60 or older. Kuwaitis have a higher prevalence compared to non-Kuwaitis, with South Asian expatriates having the highest prevalence. Diabetes-related drug expenses accounted for approximately 22.8% of Kuwait’s total drug costs in 2018, highlighting the financial burden of managing the disease.
2. French Polynesia
Diabetes Rate: 25.2%
French Polynesia has one of the highest rates of diabetes globally. Diabetes prevalence among individuals aged 20 to 79 was reported at 25.2% in the same year. The condition affects various age groups and genders, with Maori and Pacific peoples showing higher prevalence compared to Europeans. Obesity, heredity, and newborns with a weight exceeding 4 kg contribute to the prevalence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes in French Polynesia.
1. Pakistan
Diabetes Rate: 30.8%
Pakistan stands first among the countries with the highest rates of diabetes, affecting approximately 33 million adults, which amounts to 26% of its adult population. Type 2 diabetes prevalence stands at 16.98%, with prediabetes affecting 10.91% of the population. Pakistan’s healthcare budget allocation, at less than 1% of GDP, impacts insulin affordability. Shortages of essential medicines, including insulin, are prevalent in the public healthcare system, affecting nearly 30% of facilities.
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