79 deaths a day: South Africa’s diabetes crisis needs a new strategy
With timely support, people can lead long, healthy lives free from preventable complications.
In 2024, diabetes was the leading cause of natural death in South Africa, accounting for 6.1% of all deaths nationwide, according to Statistics South Africa's latest report. This equates to an average of nearly 79 deaths every day, with the trend persisting in 2022 and 2023 as well. The report also revealed that diabetes was the top cause of death among women and working-age adults (aged 45-64).
It was also the primary cause in five provinces, including Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and Gauteng. The data highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive national diabetes strategy, emphasizing the importance of prevention and care resources. The report urges political action, including the allocation of necessary funding and the development of a coordinated, whole-of-government response.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
