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Four times more adults now have diabetes than in 1980
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The number of adults who have diabetes has quadrupled since 1980, according to data released by the World Health organisation on the eve of World Health Day 2016, on 7 April, which is set to focus on diabetes awareness.
“Globally, an estimated 422 million adults were living with diabetes in 2014, compared to 108 million in 1980,†WHO said in its first-ever report on the disease, warning that the condition had spread because of worldwide changes “in the way people eat, move and live.â€
The organisation blamed the growing consumption of food and beverages high in sugar. Diabetes incidence grew around the world, but increased most in Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
A large proportion of diabetes cases are preventable, reminds WHO. Simple lifestyle changes have been shown to be effective in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes. Maintaining normal body weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and eating a healthy diet can reduce the risk of diabetes.
For more information on World Health Day, visit the WHO website.