Global health reports highlight prevention gaps and medication shortages

Global and regional health reports highlight critical gaps in disease prevention and the rising challenges of chronic condition management. In the field of diabetes, an international consensus supported by organizations such as the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) recommends population-wide screening for Type 1 diabetes at specific childhood intervals—ages 2 to 4, 6 to 8, and 10 to 15—to mitigate risks like diabetic ketoacidosis, especially since 85 percent of new diagnoses lack family history.

Regarding dementia and Alzheimer's, international awareness campaigns emphasize that approximately 60 percent of patients experience wandering episodes. Experts note that while over 55 million people live with dementia globally, certain lifestyle habits, including smoking cessation and regular physical activity, could reduce dementia risk by up to 40 percent.

Simultaneously, the availability of essential medications is under pressure. In Europe, particularly France and Germany, there are increasing shortages of low-cost, essential drugs for conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and hypertension. In France, the number of withdrawn reimbursable medicines rose significantly by 2025, with a high percentage being essential items priced under 10 euros. Germany also faces shortages in antibiotics, cancer medications, and blood pressure lowers.