Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Clinically, the disease is often identified through classical symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and unexplained weight loss. However, a significant proportion of cases remain undiagnosed for several years—often up to seven years—leading to early onset of complications, increased morbidity, and premature mortality. This delayed diagnosis underscores the importance of improving public awareness and early detection strategies. Globally, diabetes represents a growing public health challenge. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 463 million people are currently living with diabetes, with an estimated 4.2 million deaths attributed to the condition. Projections indicate a continuous rise in prevalence, particularly in developing countries, where rapid urbanization, lifestyle changes, and limited access to healthcare services contribute significantly to the burden. Countries such as India, China, the United States, Russia, and Japan account for a substantial proportion of global cases. In Indonesia, the prevalence of diabetes has shown a marked increase over time. The World Health Organization estimated that the number of individuals living with diabetes rose from 8.4 million in 2000 to a projected 21.3 million by 2030. This rapid escalation places Indonesia among the countries with the highest diabetes burden worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for effective prevention, awareness, and management strategies. Given the asymptomatic nature of early-stage diabetes and the increasing prevalence, enhancing awareness and promoting adherence to treatment are critical components in reducing disease complications and mortality. Improved education, early screening, and consistent medication adherence can significantly mitigate the long-term impact of diabetes, particularly in high-risk populations.
Wirawan et al. (Wed,) studied this question.