Global diabetes statistics 2026 show that diabetes remains one of the fastest-growing health challenges in the world. Millions of people are living with diabetes, while many others may have the condition without knowing it. The latest International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates show that 589 million adults aged 20–79 were living with diabetes in 2024—about 1 in 9 adults in this age group.
Diabetes is not limited to one country or region. It affects people in high-income, middle-income, and low-income countries. However, the burden is especially high in low- and middle-income countries, where access to testing, treatment, medicines, and long-term diabetes care can be more limited. For practical exercise ideas, see our guide to Best Exercises for Seniors With Diabetes: A Safe Beginner’s Guide.
In this guide, we will look at the latest worldwide diabetes statistics, major trends, regional differences, undiagnosed diabetes, and what these numbers mean for the future.
How Many People Have Diabetes Worldwide?
The latest IDF Diabetes Atlas estimates that 589 million adults aged 20–79 were living with diabetes in 2024. That means approximately 1 in every 9 adults in this age group had diabetes.
This number is already very large, but the future projections are even more concerning.
If current demographic trends continue, the number of adults with diabetes could reach approximately 853 million by 2050, or about 1 in 8 adults aged 20–79.
Global Diabetes Statistics at a Glance
| Diabetes Statistic | Latest Estimate |
| Adults with diabetes worldwide | 589 million |
| Age group used by IDF | 20–79 years |
| Global proportion | About 1 in 9 adults |
| Projected cases by 2050 | 853 million |
| People living in low- and middle-income countries | About 81% |
| Estimated undiagnosed cases | About 252 million |
The figures above come primarily from the IDF’s latest estimates.
Diabetes Has Increased Dramatically Over the Years
The global diabetes burden has grown substantially over the past few decades.
WHO reports that the number of people living with diabetes increased from around 200 million in 1990 to 830 million in 2022. WHO also reports that the increase has been faster in low- and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.
These numbers use a different population definition from the IDF estimate, so they should not be directly added together or treated as the same measurement.
Still, both sources point to the same major conclusion: diabetes is becoming a larger global health problem.
Where Is the Diabetes Burden Highest?
Diabetes affects every part of the world, but its impact is not evenly distributed.
According to IDF data, approximately 4 in 5 adults with diabetes—about 81%—live in low- and middle-income countries.
This is important because many people in these countries may face challenges such as:
- Limited access to diabetes testing
- High costs of medicines and healthcare
- Lack of regular medical checkups
- Limited access to healthy foods
- Fewer opportunities for safe physical activity
- Limited diabetes education
As a result, improving diabetes prevention and early diagnosis is important not only for individuals but also for healthcare systems.
Millions of People May Have Diabetes Without Knowing It
One of the most concerning findings from the latest global diabetes estimates is the number of people who have diabetes but have not been diagnosed.
IDF estimates that around 252 million adults with diabetes were unaware of their condition in 2024.
Undiagnosed diabetes can be dangerous because high blood glucose can affect the body for years without causing obvious symptoms.
Over time, poorly controlled diabetes can contribute to serious complications involving the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and feet. WHO identifies diabetes as a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and lower-limb amputation.
This is why early testing and appropriate medical care matter.
Diabetes in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
The global diabetes survey shows an important pattern: most adults with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries.
This creates a major public health challenge because the countries experiencing the largest diabetes burden may also have fewer healthcare resources.
WHO reports that more than half of people living with diabetes did not take medication for their condition in 2022, with treatment coverage particularly low in low- and middle-income countries.
Improving access to affordable diagnosis, medicines, education, and regular medical care could therefore make a significant difference.
Why Is Diabetes Increasing Worldwide?
Several factors can contribute to the growing diabetes burden.
1. Population Aging
People are living longer, and diabetes becomes more common with increasing age. As populations age, the number of people at risk can increase.
2. Overweight and Obesity
Excess body weight is an important risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Changes in food environments and physical activity patterns have contributed to rising obesity in many populations.
3. Physical Inactivity
Modern lifestyles can involve more sitting and less daily movement. Regular physical activity can help improve overall metabolic health.
4. Urbanization
Rapid urban growth can change how people work, travel, eat, and exercise. These lifestyle changes can influence diabetes risk.
5. Limited Access to Prevention and Healthcare
People who cannot easily access screening, medical advice, or treatment may be diagnosed later or have more difficulty managing diabetes.
What Could Happen by 2050?
The IDF projects that the number of adults aged 20–79 living with diabetes could increase to 853 million by 2050. That would mean approximately 1 in 8 adults in this age group.
However, projections are not guaranteed outcomes.
IDF notes that its 2050 projections mainly account for demographic changes such as age and urbanization and do not fully incorporate future changes in diabetes risk factors. Therefore, the projections should be viewed as estimates rather than a certain future.
This also means prevention, early diagnosis, healthy lifestyles, and better healthcare access could potentially influence the future diabetes burden.
What Can Individuals Do to Reduce Diabetes Risk?
Not every case of diabetes can be prevented. Type 1 diabetes, for example, is different from type 2 diabetes and has different causes.
For people at risk of type 2 diabetes, however, healthy lifestyle habits can be important.
Simple steps may include:
- Staying physically active
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Eating a balanced diet
- Limiting highly processed foods
- Getting regular health checkups
- Following medical advice
- Monitoring blood glucose when recommended
- Avoiding tobacco use
People who already have diabetes should work with their healthcare professional to create an appropriate management plan.
Why Regular Exercise Matters for Diabetes
Physical activity is an important part of diabetes management for many people.
Exercise can help muscles use glucose for energy and may improve insulin sensitivity. However, people with diabetes should choose activities according to their age, fitness level, health conditions, and medical advice.
Walking, cycling, swimming, resistance exercises, and balance activities can all be useful options for many adults.
Older adults and people with diabetes-related complications should speak with a healthcare professional before starting a new or intensive exercise program.
The Global Diabetes Problem Requires Early Action
The latest global diabetes statistics send a clear message: diabetes is not only an individual health issue. It is a worldwide challenge.
With 589 million adults aged 20–79 living with diabetes in 2024 and a projected 853 million by 2050, prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and education are increasingly important.
At the same time, WHO’s broader estimate of around 830 million people living with diabetes in 2022 highlights the enormous global scale of the disease.
The good news is that early action can make a difference. Regular health checks, healthy lifestyle choices, physical activity, appropriate treatment, and better access to healthcare can all play a role in reducing the impact of diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many people have diabetes worldwide?
According to the IDF’s 2025 Diabetes Atlas, 589 million adults aged 20–79 were living with diabetes in 2024.
2. What percentage of adults have diabetes?
The IDF estimates that about 1 in 9 adults aged 20–79, or approximately 11.1%, were living with diabetes in 2024.
3. How many people may have undiagnosed diabetes?
IDF estimates that approximately 252 million adults living with diabetes were unaware of their condition in 2024.
4. How many people could have diabetes by 2050?
The IDF projects that approximately 853 million adults aged 20–79 could be living with diabetes by 2050.
Final Thoughts
The latest global diabetes statistics 2026 show that diabetes continues to grow as a major worldwide health challenge. Millions of people already live with the condition, and many remain undiagnosed.
The numbers also show why early detection and healthy daily habits matter. While diabetes cannot always be prevented, people can take meaningful steps to understand their risk, stay active, eat a balanced diet, attend recommended health checks, and follow appropriate medical care.
For families and communities, better diabetes awareness can help people recognize the importance of prevention and early diagnosis before serious complications develop.
Source: International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas and World Health Organization (WHO).