NEW research suggests that the number of Australians living with diabetes may be up to 35% higher than previously estimated, raising critical questions about the size of one of Australia's most serious chronic health conditions.
The University of Sydney researchers analysed administrative data from Medicare, hospital records and pharmaceutical claims, with results suggesting there could be more than two million Australians living with diabetes, many of whom are currently missing from the official diabetes register.
Individuals diagnosed with diabetes voluntarily register to the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) through their healthcare professional, affording them access to subsidised services and products for the management of diabetes such as insulin pump consumables, syringes and needles, and blood glucose testing strips.
Lead author Emma Cox said the research highlights a much larger and more diverse population living with diabetes, particularly older Australians, people in remote areas, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
"This isn't just a data issue, it's a public health issue," Cox said.
"A significant number of Australians are missing from national statistics.
"That makes it harder to plan services, allocate funding, and deliver prevention strategies where they're most needed."
The study also found that many people who are living with type 2 diabetes are managing the condition through lifestyle changes or medications like metformin, and may be less likely to register with the NDSS.
"If people aren't visible in the data, they're also invisible to policy and funding decisions," said Professor Grant Brinkworth, Director of Research at Diabetes Australia.
The research reinforces the importance of improved screening, earlier diagnosis, and greater health system integration to ensure every person affected by diabetes is counted, supported and resourced.
Diabetes Australia said it is committed to working with the Australian Government and health sector to ensure barriers to registration are removed, with appropriate investment in the NDSS to enable timely registration and accurate reporting.
The full paper is HERE. KB
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