Type-1 Diabetes in India: A Growing Concern

T1D Series: Navigating the Landscape of Type 1 Diabetes in India: Understanding Genetics, Social Challenges, and Family Dynamics

Type-1 Diabetes (T1D) is a chronic medical condition that involves the immune system destroying insulin-producing beta cells located in the pancreas.¹ In India, T1D is less prevalent than Type-2 Diabetes, yet its incidence is rising steadily.^2,3 This bears significant implications for public health and healthcare providers in the country, as well as for patients and their families.

In 2022, India recorded approximately 95,600 cases of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) among children below 14 years of age, with an annual increase of around 15,900 cases in this age group.⁴ According to the Diabetes Atlas 2017, there were an estimated 128,500 children and adolescents with diabetes in India.² However, the actual numbers could be higher due to the absence of a nationwide registry².

The increasing incidence of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in India is posing a major challenge to the country’s healthcare system

In 2015, diabetes-related healthcare expenses in India were estimated to be around USD 8,485.8 million.⁵ However, as T1D cases continue to rise, this figure is expected to increase further, thereby putting a significant burden on the existing healthcare infrastructure.

The incidence of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is on the rise, and organizations like the Type 1 Diabetes Foundation of India are actively working towards alleviating this growing health concern.¹ They are primarily focused on education, engagement, and advocacy initiatives for individuals with T1D.¹ Through their support groups and communities, they ensure that people dealing with diabetes have access to the necessary resources and information to manage this chronic condition effectively.¹

Despite the advances in technology, the management of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) remains a challenge

While early diagnosis is key to better management and prevention of complications, increased awareness about T1D, its symptoms, and effective management strategies are still lacking. Moreover, the rising prevalence of T1D in India calls for more research to understand the underlying causes and develop effective interventions. Therefore, there is a need for collaborative efforts from healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to address the challenges posed by T1D in India.

T1D is a rapidly increasing health issue in India that demands urgent attention. A coordinated effort from the government, healthcare providers, and society can help in effectively managing this condition, thereby enhancing the quality of life for the patients.

References:

1. Type 1 Diabetes Foundation of India. Accessed April 11, 2024. https://www.t1dfindia.org/.
2. Type 1 Diabetes in India: The Numbers Show the Way Ahead. Accessed April 11, 2024. https://www.indianpediatrics.net/mar2019/mar-189-190.htm.
3. Diabetes in India. In: Wikipedia; 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diabetes_in_India.
4. Type 1 diabetes rising among kids: National study. Accessed April 11, 2024. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/type-1-diabetes-rising-among-kids-national-study/articleshow/92046942.cms.
5. India diabetes report 2000 — 2045. Accessed April 11, 2024. https://diabetesatlas.org/data/en/country/93/in.html.