News

According to a recent report, more than 4 in 5 Indians or 86 per cent of Indians living with diabetes have experienced anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition as a result of their diabetes. The report is based on a global survey of seven countries including India, by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

This report comes ahead of World Diabetes Day. This day is observed every year on November 14 and the day aims to raise awareness about diabetes and its preventive measures. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there are estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 years are suffering from diabetes (type 2) and nearly 25 million are prediabetics in India.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) says that there are 537 million adults between 20 and 79 years old who are living with diabetes globally. This number is predicted to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045.

The report is based on a global survey of seven countries including India, by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) which reveals that diabetes impacts mental well-being more than previously thought.

The mental health conditions among people with diabetes were driven commonly due to the fear of developing complications (76 per cent). Other factors included daily diabetes management (72 per cent), accessing support from a healthcare professional (65 per cent), and accessing medicines and supplies (61 per cent).

Importantly, the data highlighted a gender divide. About 90 per cent of women living with diabetes reported experiencing a mental health condition, compared to 84 per cent of men. Also, 85 per cent of diabetics also reported experiencing diabetes burnout. This was primarily due to feeling frustrated or overwhelmed by daily diabetes management.

Of these, 73 per cent also admitted to stopping or interrupting their diabetes treatment due to stress or feeling overwhelmed. Nearly 80 per cent sought increased support for their emotional and mental well-being from their healthcare providers, the report said.

Globally, the survey showed that 77 per cent of people living with diabetes have experienced anxiety, and depression, because of their diabetes. Prof Peter Schwarz, President of the International Diabetes Federation said, “While diabetes affects both physical and mental well-being, care often focuses only on blood sugar management, leaving many overwhelmed.”

He emphasised the need to “look beyond blood sugar for a better diabetes life”. The survey included 1,880 individuals across seven countries including India, Brazil, Indonesia, Pakistan, South Africa, Spain and the US.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.