The World Health Organization has warned that diabetes is placing an increasing burden on African health systems, with an estimated 24.6 million adults aged 20 to 79 living with the condition in the region in 2024 and projections indicating a substantial increase by 2050.
In material attributed to WHO Regional Director for Africa Dr Mohamed Janabi, the organization said many people do not know they have diabetes until complications develop. The International Diabetes Federation estimates that nearly three out of four adults living with the disease in Africa remain undiagnosed.
The warning emphasized early testing, sustained treatment and wider access to affordable medicines, including insulin. Symptoms that should prompt medical assessment include persistent thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, tiredness and blurred vision.
WHO highlighted primary healthcare initiatives including WHO PEN, HEARTS, HEARTS-D and PEN-Plus, while calling for stronger investment in trained staff, diagnostics and continuity of care. The supplied statement is described as a World Diabetes Day 2026 message, although the annual observance falls on November 14; its release date should therefore be verified before it is presented as a statement already issued.
