AUSTRALIA'S diabetes epidemic is costing the health system $9.1 billion each year, which is almost three times more than previously thought, according to updated estimates from Diabetes Australia.
With more than two million people living with all types of diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, it is considered to be one of the greatest health challenges facing Australia.
The analysis takes into account national and international evidence of the excess health costs of diabetes, and the current prevalence of diabetes.
Diabetes Australia noted that someone is newly diagnosed every five minutes, and without strong investment in prevention, up to 3.6 million people could be living with diabetes by 2050.
Diabetes Australia's Group CEO Justine Cain said the latest estimates sound a warning for governments and healthcare providers that Australia's diabetes epidemic requires an emergency response.
"The cost of diabetes to individuals and our nation is staggering, and without urgent action to reverse the current trend, our health system will be overwhelmed," Cain said.
"We need a raft of initiatives to help prevent type 2 diabetes where we can, and prevent the costly complications of all types of diabetes in people who are already living with the condition."
Diabetes Australia has pointed to awareness programs for melanoma and breast cancer that have delivered successful prevention outcomes, advocating for the same focus on diabetes.
"We need a national diabetes prevention approach, backed by increased awareness, school-based initiatives, and policies like better food labelling to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and its complications," Cain said.
"Investing in prevention is an investment in Australia's future."
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 20 Jun 25
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