Diabetes' hidden toll: IDF sounds alarm on mental health


·       Pakistan among countries with highest diabetes-related mental health issues

IV Report

KARACHI: A recent International Diabetes Federation (IDF) global survey has revealed alarming rates of mental health conditions among diabetics in Pakistan. The study, released ahead of World Diabetes Day, shows 78% of Pakistani diabetics experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues due to their condition.

According to the survey, diabetes affects the mental health of 77% of patients globally, while 83% fear developing complications. Factors contributing to mental health concerns include daily diabetes management (76%), stigma and discrimination (58%), and fear of needles (55%). In Pakistan, 3 in 4 diabetics experience mental health conditions, with 58% facing stigma.

The IDF survey, conducted online via Smart Survey from September 9 to October 9 this year, gathered responses from 1,880 individuals across seven countries: Brazil, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, South Africa, Spain, and the USA.

Disseminating the diabetes and its impacts on the Pakistani population, Prof Abdul Basit, Secretary General of the Diabetic Association of Pakistan (DAP) and transnational member of IDF, stated, "As per new IDF estimates, over 32 million people are currently living with diabetes in Pakistan, with the prevalence rate expected to reach 33% of the adult population by 2045."

"The IDF survey suggests that the mental well-being of over 25 million people could be impacted due to the daily burden of managing their condition in the country," Prof Basit added.

Diabetes affects both physical and mental well-being, yet care often focuses solely on blood sugar management, leaving many overwhelmed. "We need to look beyond blood sugar for a better diabetes life," emphasised Prof Basit.

“The survey highlighted a clear call for increased support for diabetes patients' emotional and mental well-being from their healthcare providers. Key factors leading to mental health conditions among Pakistanis include fear of developing complications (72%), accessing medicines and supplies (69%), accessing support from a healthcare professional (65%), and daily diabetes management (62%).”

“More than four-fifths (88%) of Pakistanis living with diabetes experienced diabetes burnout, a state of physical or emotional exhaustion caused by the daily requirements of managing diabetes. Just under 80% of Pakistanis living with diabetes would like to receive more support for their emotional and mental health well-being from their healthcare provider.”

IDF scientists noted, "Although diabetes doesn’t always lead to mental health challenges, a significant 79% of participants report experiencing diabetes burnout, primarily due to the emotional strain and demands of daily management." Alarmingly, 3 in 4 of those affected by burnout admitted to stopping or interrupting their diabetes treatment due to stress or feeling overwhelmed.

IDF President Prof Peter Schwarz warned, "According to our latest estimates, over half a billion people are currently living with diabetes, with 1 in 8 people set to be affected by 2045."

The survey report also revealed country-specific concerns:

- In India, 86% of people with diabetes report mental health issues related to their condition.

- South Africa reflects similar concerns with 84% of respondents experiencing mental health struggles and 83% seeking more emotional support from healthcare providers.

- In Brazil, 80% of participants reported that they had stopped or interrupted their treatment due to stress caused by diabetes.

The IDF statement concluded that healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities should recognise the profound impact of diabetes on well-being. "Putting well-being at the heart of diabetes care can improve health outcomes and the overall quality of life for the millions of people living with diabetes worldwide."

 

 

With an uninterrupted 23-year career in daily journalism (1991-2013), the author/editor of this blog currently serves as Editor of Social Track, a weekly newspaper focused on social sectors, based in Karachi. Holding a master's degree in Mass Communications from the University of Karachi (1990), his professional experience includes roles as senior reporter at Daily Dawn, Karachi (May 2001-August 2013) and Chief Reporter at The News International, Karachi (April 1991-May 2001). He has a strong background in development journalism, he has an extensive portfolio of news stories, analytical reports and features covering a wide range of sectors. He has had the privilege of covering numerous high-profile figures, including Pakistani presidents, prime ministers, army chiefs, foreign dignitaries, and VVIPs and attending conferences and workshops abroad. He began his journalism career in the early 1980s. Throughout his career, he has received several national awards from government and private organisations. He has contributed to various radio and TV/channel broadcasts and has also served as a trainer at workshops in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, focused on training journalists.

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