Socio-economic impacts of diabetes in various countries

The economic burden of diabetes is particularly evident in low- and middle-income countries, where patients often have to cover healthcare expenses out of pocket. Analysis shows that diabetes-related costs vary significantly depending on a country's income level, with expenditures being extremely high in the United States. Attention is also drawn to differences in the structure of costs: in poorer countries, the main expenses are related to medications, whereas in wealthier countries, a significant portion of spending is allocated to treating complications. Special emphasis is placed on the economic consequences of diabetes complications, such as cardiovascular diseases, retinopathy, and amputations.

Objective. To highlight the importance of early detection and preventive measures in reducing the economic burden associated with diabetes.

Materials and Methods. This article is based on a literature review conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, EconLit, and IBSS databases. Epidemiological and economic data from 184 countries were used to assess the global economic burden of diabetes, regardless of its type.

Conclusion. The study results demonstrate that the economic burden of diabetes is steadily increasing and may exceed USD 1 trillion by 2035. This issue is particularly relevant in low-income countries, where 75% of treatment costs fall on patients themselves, limiting access to healthcare, leading to late diagnosis of diabetes, an increase in the number of complications, and a rise in financial costs.

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