The lead Editorial in this week's Diabetes Special Issue of The Lancet address the spiralling epidemic of the disease. The current figure of 246 million adults worldwide with the condition is expected to expand rapidly to 380 million by 2025, and parallels the obesity epidemic spreading through both industrialised and developing nations.
The Editorial says: "Diabetes accounts for around 6% of total global mortality, with 50% of diabetes-associated deaths being attributed to cardiovascular disease. Although the impending burden faced by health-care providers and services is immense, with appropriate management programmes and prevention strategies targeting high-risk individuals, much of the morbidity and mortality of diabetes are preventable."
Making reference to a number of the studies found in this week's special issue, the Editorial concludes: "We are continually learning more about the pathogenesis and management of diabetes, and its intertwining association with obesity and cardiovascular disease. Diabetes – a disease recognised centuries ago – has entered an era of exciting scientific research, discovery, and controversy. The challenge is to translate research findings into substantial clinical improvements for patients. Although prospects are hopeful, they are not assured."
The Lancet Press Office T) +44 (0) 20 7424 4949 E) pressoffice@lancet.com
http://multimedia.thelancet.com/pdf/press/globalchallenge.pdf
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The Lancet