On 8 April, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) launched the new IDF Global Clinical Practice Recommendations for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes at the World Diabetes Congress IDF 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
These recommendations incorporate the latest advancements in diabetes management to provide healthcare professionals with the tools to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care to people with type 2 diabetes. By using these guidelines, HCPs have a structured yet adaptable framework which they can use in diverse clinical settings.
Estimates released by the International Diabetes Federation in the IDF Diabetes Atlas 11th edition indicate that approximately 589 million adults (20-79 years) are living with diabetes worldwide—over 90% live with type 2 diabetes. The condition often goes unnoticed, with over 40% of those affected being unaware. Without proper management, it can lead to diabetes-related complications. However, with early diagnosis and access to treatment and support, the condition can be effectively managed, delaying or preventing these complications.
These recommendations differentiate between optimal and basic-care strategies, enabling context-specific, person-centred diabetes management tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Topics covered include:
- Epidemiology
- Glycaemic targets
- Blood glucose management (both non-insulin and insulin therapies)
- Weight control
- Cardio-renal health
- The impact of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASLD) and fatty liver disease on diabetes outcomes.
The launch of these recommendations, which can be transformative to diabetes care, serves as a call to action for improved diabetes care globally.
