Why is it necessary to monitor blood glucose level in diabetes management?

Many people living with uncontrolled diabetes have increased risk of microvascular complications and death.

Diabetes of all types can lead to complications in many parts of the body and can increase the overall risk of dying prematurely.

Possible complications include heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, leg amputation,
vision loss and nerve damage. In pregnancy, poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of fetal death and other complications.

(WHO Global report on diabetes)

What are the global coverage targets for diabetes?

For the first time ever, WHO Member States have supported the creation of global targets for diabetes, the five new targets set the standard that, by 2030:  

  • 80% of people living with diabetes are diagnosed
  • 80% have good control of glycaemia
  • 80% of people with diagnosed diabetes have good control of blood pressure
  • 60% of people with diabetes of 40 years or older receive statins
  • 100% of people with type 1 diabetes have access to affordable insulin and blood glucose self-monitoring.  

The aim is to reduce the risk of diabetes, and move towards a world where all people who are diagnosed with diabetes have access to equitable, comprehensive, affordable and quality treatment and care.

(WHO 75th World Health Assembly)

Useful links

  • Non-communicable disease programme at FIND

    We are working to stop people dying prematurely because of NCDs, by increasing the availability, affordability and uptake of essential diagnostics for diabetes and other cardiometabolic conditions.

    Read more 

  • Market barriers to NCD diagnostics innovation for LMICs

    In this video, James Hazel (Research Programme Manager, Access to Medicine Foundation) and Sanjay Sarin (Vice President, Access, FIND), are discussing market barriers to NCD diagnostics innovation for LMICs.

    Watch 

  • WHO non-communicable diseases data portal

    The noncommunicable diseases data portal aims to raise awareness on progress in tackling NCDs and their risk factors and strengthen accountability for action by countries.

    Read more