Early-Onset Type 2 Diabetes on the Rise: A Wake-Up Call for Global Health
Once considered a condition affecting older adults, type 2 diabetes is now rising rapidly among people under 40. In some countries, over 15% of young adults are now affected. Between 2013 and 2021, global cases in the 20–39 age group jumped from 63 million to 260 million.
This shift is driven largely by rising obesity, unhealthy diets, and sedentary lifestyles. Experts warn that those diagnosed before age 30 could lose up to 15 years of life expectancy. The condition also progresses faster in younger individuals, leading to complications that strain healthcare systems.
Worryingly, many people in Asia are developing diabetes at lower body weights due to internal fat buildup. This shows the need for region-specific research and prevention strategies.
Public health efforts must now focus on prevention—promoting healthier food environments, increasing physical activity, and targeting risk factors early. Without urgent action, early-onset diabetes could become one of the biggest health challenges of our time.
