The World Health Organisation has warned that more than 40 per cent of people living with diabetes worldwide have not been diagnosed, raising concerns about the health risks associated with delayed detection.
The global health agency said millions of people could miss out on essential treatment, medical support and guidance because they are unaware that they have the condition.
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The warning comes ahead of World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14.
The 2026 edition is themed “Early action on diabetes”, highlighting the importance of identifying the condition promptly and ensuring access to appropriate care.
According to a report published on the United Nations website, WHO cautioned that people who do not know they have diabetes may be unable to obtain the treatment and support required to manage the condition and maintain healthy lives.
The organisation listed increased thirst, frequent urination, tiredness and blurred vision among the common symptoms of diabetes, urging the public to recognise these warning signs and seek medical attention when necessary.
It explained that Type 1 diabetes often develops rapidly, while Type 2 diabetes usually progresses gradually and may produce few or no obvious symptoms in its early stages.
WHO also warned that Type 1 diabetes could develop at any age and was sometimes overlooked or misdiagnosed, particularly among adults.
The agency stressed that recognising the symptoms early could lead to timely diagnosis and potentially life-saving treatment.
As part of efforts to improve detection, WHO said one of the five global diabetes coverage targets supported by its member states was to ensure that at least 80 per cent of people living with the condition were diagnosed by 2030.
It described closing the diagnosis gap as a global priority, noting that early identification must be supported by affordable healthcare, timely treatment and continuous assistance for patients.
The organisation also called for healthier environments that encourage the prevention and management of Type 2 diabetes.
These include improved access to nutritious food, safe spaces for physical activity and quality healthcare services.
WHO further emphasised that uninterrupted and effective diabetes care was necessary to reduce complications and help people living with the condition enjoy healthier and more fulfilling lives.
On discrimination, the agency warned that stigma against people with diabetes remained widespread, harmful and preventable.
It maintained that people affected by the condition deserved understanding and support, adding that the language and images used to discuss diabetes could influence how patients were treated and perceived.
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The organisation therefore called for greater sensitivity in public discussions and representations of people living with diabetes.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
