Diabetes is the second leading underlying cause of death in South Africa after tuberculosis, and the leading underlying cause of death among women, according to Statistics South Africa.

Research by Wits University estimates that diabetes costs the country’s health system R2.7-billion annually in direct costs – and that’s just for diagnosed patients. The figure does not account for indirect costs such as lost jobs and income.

The disease affects 12% of South Africa’s adult population, but many cases remain undiagnosed. If all cases were identified and treated, Wits research unit Priceless SA estimates that the cost would rise to R21.8-billion a year. This figure is expected to increase to R35-billion in real terms by 2030.

🔗 Health-e