Type 2 Diabetes in India: An Epidemiological Overview

Abstract

The rapid rise of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) represents one of the key challenges to global development in the new century. Indeed, they have emerged as major concerns in South Asia.1 The rising prevalence of diabetes is becoming a global concern. The disease burden, attributed to morbidity, mortality, and reduced quality of life, is reported to be substantial, particularly among the earning age group.3 Compared to type 2 diabetes, which accounts for over 90% of cases globally, frequency of type 1 diabetes is relatively low (~10%). Type 2 diabetes currently affects 6.6% of the world’s adult population, with almost 80% of the total being in developing countries.4 The disease, which affects the poor and young in developing countries disproportionately, is reported to have a significant negative impact on the productivity and economy of these countries.5