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World Diabetes Day on Saturday, 14 November, puts earlier diagnosis and reliable access to care at the centre of the 2026 awareness campaign. The World Health Organization (WHO) is also calling for a response to the stigma experienced by people living with the condition.
The WHO campaign, themed “Early action on diabetes”, says more than 40% of people living with diabetes worldwide remain undiagnosed. That is a global estimate; it should not be read as a figure specifically for India.
Why recognising diabetes earlier matters
Diabetes involves persistently high blood glucose. In its World Diabetes Day briefing, WHO explains that the condition can damage blood vessels and affect organs including the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Although often associated with childhood, it can develop at any age and may be missed or misdiagnosed.
Type 2 diabetes involves difficulty using insulin or making enough of it. Symptoms can be mild or absent, allowing the condition to go unnoticed for years. WHO warns that complications may already be present when some people receive a diagnosis.
Diagnosis needs to lead to continuing care
Early detection is one part of the response. WHO’s briefing says uninterrupted, quality care can prevent or limit complications and reduce long-term costs. Its campaign also calls for affordable treatment and ongoing support after diagnosis.
A global target endorsed by WHO member states aims for 80% of people living with diabetes to be diagnosed by 2030. This is a coverage goal, rather than a claim that countries have already achieved it.
What readers can take from today’s campaign
WHO advises people to seek medical advice if they notice possible symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, tiredness or blurred vision. It also asks families and communities to challenge stigma and support people seeking care.
The same message is relevant to readers in India: awareness should help people reach appropriate health services, with respectful support continuing beyond a diagnosis.
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