Australia’s diabetes epidemic is costing the health system a staggering $9.1 billion each year – almost three times more than previously estimated, according to updated estimates from Diabetes Australia.

The diabetes epidemic is one of the biggest health challenges facing Australia. More than two million people are living with all types of diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes.  Every five minutes another Australian is diagnosed and without strong investment in prevention, up to 3.6 million people could be living with diabetes by 2050.

In 2020-21 the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimated $3.4 billion of expenditure in the health system was attributable to diabetes.  

Using alternate methods, data sources and analytical approaches, the new Diabetes Australia analysis takes into account national and international evidence of the excess health costs of diabetes and the current prevalence of diabetes in the Australian population, showing the current cost is likely almost threefold.

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO Justine Cain said the latest estimates sound a warning for governments and healthcare providers that Australia’s diabetes epidemic requires an emergency response.

“The cost of diabetes to individuals and our nation is staggering. Without urgent action to reverse the current trend, our health system will be overwhelmed.

“We need a range of initiatives to help prevent type 2 diabetes where we can, and prevent the costly complications of all types of diabetes in people who are already living with the condition. By doing that, we can help ease the pressure on the whole health system.

“While a $9 billion cost to the health system is astounding, sitting behind that figure are millions of Australians whose lives are being affected by diabetes and who need support to prevent serious complications like heart disease, stroke and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

Diabetes Australia has pointed to awareness programs for melanoma and breast cancer which have delivered successful prevention outcomes, advocating for the same focus on diabetes.

“Australia is lagging behind other OECD nations in how we combat diabetes. We know that education and public health initiatives promoting healthy diets and active lifestyles can make a significant difference.

“Genetics plays a key role in the development of type 2 diabetes, but we also know that up to 58% of diagnoses can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes. We need to increase public awareness about that so people know their risk factors and can take positive steps for their health,” Ms Cain said.

Diabetes Australia is advocating for government investment in public education campaigns and initiatives to help reduce the cost of diabetes on the health system.

“We need a national diabetes prevention approach, backed by increased awareness, school-based initiatives, and policies like better food labelling to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and diabetes complications,” she said.

“Investing in prevention is an investment in Australia’s future.”

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About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

For information:            Monica Rostron, Diabetes Australia – 0409 126 332

                                         [email protected]