## Global Diabetes Prevalence **Key Point:** The IDF Diabetes Atlas (10th edition, 2021) reported that approximately **10.7% of the global adult population (20–79 years)** has diabetes mellitus, representing approximately **537 million people**. This figure includes both diagnosed and undiagnosed cases. ## Epidemiological Significance **High-Yield:** Understanding current global prevalence is essential for public health planning and resource allocation. The prevalence has been steadily increasing over the past two decades due to: - Aging populations - Urbanization and lifestyle changes - Increased obesity rates - Improved detection and diagnosis ## Regional Variation | Region | Prevalence (%) | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | | Southeast Asia | 12–15% | Highest burden | | Middle East & North Africa | 13–14% | High prevalence | | Western Pacific | 9–10% | Large absolute numbers | | Europe | 8–9% | Moderate prevalence | | Americas | 10–11% | Mixed high and low income | **Clinical Pearl:** India and China together account for nearly 40% of the global diabetes burden, making Asia the epicenter of the diabetes pandemic.
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