Top Countries by Diabetes Deaths

This bar chart race shows estimated annual deaths from diabetes mellitus by country/territory, total and rates per 100,000, from 1980 to 2021.

Numbers cover diabetes type 1 and type 2, but the vast majority of deaths are caused by type 2 (about 97% in 2021). Type 1 deaths has not changed much over time, and the increase are mostly caused by type 2.

The death rate has been relative stable globally, but trends vary between level of income groups. High income countries have experienced a decrease, while lower middle income countries have experienced significant increase.

Island states and territories have significant higher death rates than other countries, particularly in the Pacific and Caribbean regions. Research points to several factors:
Obesity and Lifestyle Changes: Studies indicate high rates of obesity due to shifts from traditional diets to calorie-dense processed foods, often imported. Limited exercise opportunities also play a role.​
Healthcare Gaps: Poor access to early diabetes diagnosis and advanced treatment contributes to higher mortality rates. Many small island nations face resource limitations in healthcare infrastructure​.
Cultural and Genetic Influences: Certain populations, such as Pacific Islanders, may have genetic predispositions for diabetes, exacerbated by modern lifestyle changes.​

Data source: IHME, Diabetes Journal.

Data visualization created with flourish.studio https://flourish.studio