Diabetes facts and figures show the growing global burden for individuals, families, and countries. The latest IDF Diabetes Atlas (2025) reports that 11.1% – or 1 in 9 – of the adult population (20-79 years) is living with diabetes, with over 4 in 10 unaware that they have the condition.
By 2050, IDF projections show that 1 in 8 adults, approximately 853 million, will be living with diabetes, an increase of 46%.
Over 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes, which is driven by socio-economic, demographic, environmental, and genetic factors. The key contributors to the rise in type 2 diabetes include:
- Urbanisation
- An ageing population
- Decreasing levels of physical activity
- Increasing overweight and obesity prevalence
However, it is possible to reduce the impact of diabetes by taking preventive measures for type 2 diabetes and providing early diagnosis and proper care for all types of diabetes. These measures can help people living with the condition avoid or delay complications.
Diabetes around the world in 2024
589 million
Approximately 589 million adults (20-79 years) are living with diabetes.
853 million by 2050
The total number of people living with diabetes is projected to rise to 853 million by 2045.
4 in 5
Over 4 in 5 adults (81%) with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries


