Recent data has highlighted a concerning surge in diabetes cases across New Zealand, prompting Diabetes New Zealand to label it an “epidemic.” The findings, sourced from the Virtual Diabetes Register, indicate that over the past three years, approximately 95,700 new diagnoses have been recorded, bringing the total number of people living with diabetes to around 324,000.
Health experts project that this figure could exceed 500,000 by 2040, painting a grim picture for the country’s health system.
Among the most affected groups are Pasifika communities, with more than 12% of individuals diagnosed with the disease. In comparison, 10% of the Indian community and 7% of Māori individuals have been affected.
Diabetes New Zealand’s chief executive, Heather Verry, has expressed urgent concern, stressing the need for swift action. “This is a crisis for the health system and for people, and it doesn’t have to be that way,” Verry said. She emphasized that lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, obesity, and a rapidly aging population, are contributing to the rise in diabetes cases.
“The surge in diabetes is driven by our health habits, with obesity rates skyrocketing not only in New Zealand but globally,” she explained. “Additionally, younger populations are increasingly being diagnosed, putting them at greater risk for long-term complications.”
Verry called for greater investment from the government to address the issue, suggesting that while a sugar tax could be a part of the solution, more funding and awareness campaigns are critical to managing the disease effectively. “We need people to understand that diabetes is manageable, and early diagnosis is key to better health outcomes.”
In response, Health Minister Shane Reti acknowledged the urgency of the situation, stressing the importance of addressing risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition. However, he noted that a sugar tax is not currently under consideration by the Government.
Advocacy groups, including Diabetes New Zealand, also seek clearer data regarding the types of diabetes being diagnosed. Verry pointed out the need for differentiation between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as each requires specific treatment and management strategies.
The rising number of diabetes cases in New Zealand is now a focal point of public health discussions, with experts urging immediate government intervention to mitigate the long-term impact on the population’s health
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