A new report by the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA), released on November 30, 2015, recommended government action is needed to address gaps in the care and resources available to Canadians living with diabetes in the face of a rapidly growing prevalence rate for the disease.
The number of Canadians living with diabetes has more than doubled since 2000, and will grow by another 40 per cent by 2025. Today, more than 10 million Canadian children and adults have diabetes or prediabetes. Almost another million Canadians are living with type 2 diabetes but don’t know it; they have not yet been diagnosed.
The CDA has identified four key areas for action and recommends government intervention to:
- prevent amputations;
- reduce the number of cases of diabetes in Aboriginal communities;
- eliminate stigma and discrimination against people with diabetes; and,
- improve support for children with diabetes in school.
Key findings
- Support is needed to address stigma about diabetes and mental health issues among people with diabetes: 33% of Canadians with diabetes are hesitant to disclose their diabetes, and 33% of Canadians with diabetes experience anxiety as a result of their disease.
- The prevalence of diabetes, its complications and some modifiable risk factors (e.g. overweight and obesity, tobacco use) are disproportionately higher in Aboriginal communities.
- Canadians with diabetes are not receiving the recommended level of care and timely education to prevent complications. Many of them, particularly those with lower incomes, do not have adequate insurance coverage for eye and dental care, specialist foot care, prescription medications and supplies.
- High out-of-pocket costs and limited public plan coverage compromise the ability of Canadians to manage diabetes; some must choose between paying for food and rent or buying medications and supplies.
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