In plain words
Diabetes is a long-term condition in which the pancreas does not make enough insulin, or the body cannot use the insulin it makes well. Insulin is the hormone that controls blood glucose.
Raised blood glucose, over time, damages many body systems. Type 2 diabetes can be mild for years before it is noticed.
Key facts
- People living with diabetes rose from 200 million in 1990 to 830 million in 2022 (WHO).
- In 2022, 14% of adults aged 18 and over had diabetes, up from 7% in 1990.
- More than half of people with diabetes took no medication for it in 2022; coverage was lowest in low- and middle-income countries.
- In 2021 diabetes directly caused 1.6 million deaths.
Symptoms
Feeling very thirsty, urinating more often, blurred vision, tiredness and unintentional weight loss. In type 2 these can be mild and take years to notice.
Complications
Over time diabetes can damage blood vessels in the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. It raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and permanent vision loss. WHO also lists lower limb amputation.
Prevention and management
WHO says a healthy diet, regular physical activity, a normal body weight and avoiding tobacco can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Diabetes can be treated and its consequences avoided or delayed with diet, activity, medication, and regular screening and treatment for complications.
Sources
- WHO fact sheet, Type 2 diabetes, published 14 November 2024, read 9 October 2026.
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026. Reviewer: none yet. This page is general education and is not medical advice. Figures are WHO's and may have been updated since.