Epidemiology of type 2 diabetes in the Middle East and North Africa: Challenges and call for action

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes continues to be a serious and highly prevalent public health problem worldwide. In 2019, the highest prevalence of diabetes in the world at 12.2%, with its associated morbidity and mortality, was found in the Middle East and North Africa region. In addition to a genetic predisposition in its population, evidence suggests that obesity, physical inactivity, urbanization, and poor nutritional habits have contributed to the high prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in the region. These risk factors have also led to an earlier onset of type 2 diabetes among children and adolescents, negatively affecting the productive years of the youth and their quality of life. Furthermore, efforts to control the rising prevalence of diabetes and its complications have been challenged and complicated by the political instability and armed conflict in some countries of the region and the recent coronavirus disease 2019. Broad strategies, coupled with targeted interventions at the regional, national, and community levels are needed to address and curb the spread of this public health crisis.

Keywords: Type 2 diabetes; Middle East and North Africa; Epidemiology; Prevalence; Prediabetes; Complications

Core Tip: The Middle East and North Africa region has the world’s highest diabetes prevalence, the second highest rate of rise, the highest adjusted mortality from noncommunicable disease, and the highest diabetes-related disability adjusted life years. This review provides an up-to-date review of the diabetes status in this dynamic region of the world and touches on new elements that affect diabetes such as the high number of refugees and the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. This review identifies gaps and weaknesses in type 2 diabetes in the Middle East and North Africa region and highlights areas where planning and action are highly needed.