On November 14, 2024, the global community marks World Diabetes Day, a critical reminder of the impact of diabetes, a chronic condition that affects at least 64 million adults and approximately 300,000 children and adolescents in the WHO European Region. In 2019, diabetes was responsible for around 186,000 deaths in the region—a number that has been steadily rising and is projected to double between 2005 and 2030. Alarmingly, about one in three individuals living with diabetes remains undiagnosed, and nearly half of those who have received a diagnosis do not achieve their treatment goals. This highlights an urgent call for action in diabetes care and management.
In response to these pressing challenges, five global diabetes coverage targets were established during the 2021 World Health Assembly. These targets are designed to mitigate diabetes risks and foster a world where everyone diagnosed with diabetes can access equitable, comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality treatment and care. Emphasizing the necessity of a holistic approach, these guidelines prioritize addressing both the medical and personal requirements of individuals living with diabetes.
This year’s World Diabetes Day emphasizes the significance of personalized care for the millions affected by the condition in the region. Research indicates that effective patient education is vital for managing chronic noncommunicable diseases, underscoring the necessity for person-centered, customized diabetes care.
Transforming Experiences Through Personalized Care
Shifting the focus to the actual needs of individuals living with diabetes can significantly enhance their experience, transforming it from one of fear and isolation to one of support and empowerment. The theme of this year reinforces the idea that diabetes should not be perceived as an insurmountable challenge but as a manageable condition.
Personal stories from individuals such as Cajsa, Iryna, Jean, Konstantina, and Erik illustrate the importance of lived experiences in shaping clinical decision-making. Cajsa, diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 13, emphasizes the value of incorporating insights from those who navigate the condition daily. Iryna, who has managed her type 1 diabetes for over 30 years, alongside Jean, who struggles with a generalized approach to treatment, highlights the efficacy of tailored support.
Erik’s experiences with type 2 diabetes and Konstantina’s journey as a young diabetes patient further stress the critical need for empathy, psychological support, and individualized care. Their narratives serve as a poignant reminder that effective diabetes management extends beyond medication; it requires a holistic strategy that empowers individuals to take charge of their health and their lives.
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