World Diabetes Day 2025, observed on 14 November, brings renewed global attention to one of the most urgent public health challenges—diabetes. In her official statement, Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge, WHO South-East Asia, highlights the growing burden of diabetes and the actions needed to protect millions across the region.
With over 279 million adults living with diabetes in South-East Asia—one-third of the global burden—the disease continues to threaten lives, especially when left undiagnosed or poorly managed. Shockingly, only one in three people with diabetes in the region receives treatment, and less than 15% have their blood glucose levels adequately controlled.
This year’s theme, “Diabetes Across Life Stages,” underscores the need for integrated, age-responsive care that supports every individual—from childhood to old age.
Why Diabetes Care Must Span Every Life Stage
Children and Adolescents
Type 1 diabetes, typically seen in younger age groups, cannot currently be prevented, but early diagnosis and ongoing medical support help children grow, learn, and thrive. Schools and families play a key role in daily management.
Pregnancy
Proper diabetes management during pregnancy helps protect the mother’s health and ensures a healthy future for the baby. Early screening and continuous monitoring are essential.
Older Adults
As people age, managing diabetes becomes more complex. Older adults benefit from continuous support, medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and regular screenings to prevent complications.
Preventing and Managing Diabetes: What Works
While type 1 diabetes requires lifelong treatment, type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through:
- Regular physical activity
- A balanced, nutritious diet
- Avoiding tobacco
- Limiting alcohol consumption
For those already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a combination of medication, healthy habits, and regular monitoring can significantly reduce complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Regional Efforts: Progress Toward Better Diabetes Control
Countries in WHO’s South-East Asia Region have taken major steps:
2023 – SEAHEARTS Resolution
Member States adopted SEAHEARTS: Accelerating prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases, promoting diabetes management through the WHO HEARTS technical package in primary healthcare.
2024 – Colombo Call for Action
A powerful regional commitment to strengthen diabetes prevention and care. It focuses on:
- Increasing access to affordable medicines
- Providing insulin and glucose monitoring devices through national health coverage
- Implementing practical, scalable solutions for prevention and treatment
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Protocol-Based Diabetes Management
Most countries now use standardized drug- and dose-specific treatment protocols.
More than 33 million people are currently receiving protocol-based diabetes care in public health facilities across the region.
A Call to Action on World Diabetes Day 2025
Dr. Boehme urges governments, NGOs, healthcare professionals, and communities to strengthen their collective efforts. Ensuring early diagnosis, universal access to care, and continuous support is essential to reducing diabetes-related deaths and improving quality of life at every age.
On World Diabetes Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to creating healthier, more supportive environments that empower every individual—young or old—to live well with diabetes.
