WHO warns of rising diabetes cases and high undiagnosed rates in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning regarding the growing burden of diabetes across Africa. Dr. Mohamed Janabi, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, stated that an estimated 24.6 million adults aged 20 to 79 were living with diabetes in the region in 2024. This figure is projected to rise to 59.5 million by 2050.

A critical concern is that nearly three out of every four adults living with diabetes in Africa remain undiagnosed, which represents the highest proportion globally. This lack of diagnosis increases the risk of severe complications, including kidney failure, blindness, cardiovascular diseases, and lower-limb amputations.

In anticipation of World Diabetes Day 2026, themed “Early Action on Diabetes,” Dr. Janabi called for increased awareness, early diagnosis, and access to affordable treatment. He urged governments, healthcare workers, and communities to prioritize diabetes care and encouraged the public to recognize symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, persistent tiredness, and blurred vision.