Approximately 422 million adults were diagnosed with diabetes in 2014, compared to 108 million in the year 1980. The global number of cases of diabetes has nearly doubled since 1980, growing from 4.7% to 8.5% among adults. This reflects an increase in certain risk factors such as being overweight or obese. Over the past ten years, the number of diabetes cases has risen faster in low and middle-income countries than their high-income counterparts.

Diabetes frequently leads to blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and even lower limb amputation. A healthy diet, daily physical activity and avoiding tobacco use are some things that can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is treatable, and its consequences can be avoided or delayed with the correct medication, regular screening and treatment.

The General Assembly first recognized 14 November as World Diabetes Day in 2007. The United Nations General Assembly stated that “the urgent need to pursue multilateral efforts to promote and improve human health and provide access to treatment and health-care education.” The General Assembly also encouraged Member States to develop national policies directed at preventing, treating, and caring for individuals at risk of or currently suffering from diabetes.