One in nine adults worldwide has diabetes, and over four in ten people with the condition remain undiagnosed, according to the 2025 Atlas of the International Diabetes Federation reported by El Tiempo.
Worldwide adult deaths reached roughly 3.4 million that same year from the disease and its complications.
Mexico ranks seventh globally with 14.1 million adults aged 20 to 79 living with diabetes, as reported by Today’s Chronicle using International Diabetes Federation figures. Projections indicate that total will climb to 19.9 million by 2050.
“Simply prescribing a treatment is not enough: people need to learn how to use it correctly and have support to resolve their doubts from the beginning.” said Mariana Buss, a professional in medical affairs at embecta Latin America, as reported by Political Vertigo.
Types and Diagnosis Challenges
Type 2 diabetes accounts for more than ninety percent of all cases and develops gradually, often going unnoticed for years without clear symptoms. In Mexico, national health survey data for 2020 through 2023 show that 18 percent of adults had diabetes, and a third of them did not know it, according to Edomex Today.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin. Global cases reached 9.5 million in 2025, up from 8.4 million in 2021, with 69 percent of those affected aged between 20 and 59, El Tiempo reported. The International Diabetes Federation also officially recognized type 5 diabetes in 2025, a malnutrition-related condition affecting up to 25 million people globally.
Early warning signs include intense thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Medical specialists recommend screening tests starting at age 35 or earlier for individuals with risk factors such as obesity, family history, or gestational diabetes, as noted by Veracruzana University.
Treatment and Access Hurdles
Insulin remains vital for millions of patients more than a century after its discovery. Proper injection technique and regular monitoring heavily influence treatment safety and effectiveness.
“Timely diagnosis, sustained glycemic control, and constant communication with the healthcare team are fundamental tools for protecting long-term health.” said a representative from Eurofarma Mexico, reported by Edomex Al Día.
Colombia recorded 2,597,719 cases of diabetes by August 31, 2025, according to High Cost Account registries cited by El Tiempo.
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