The International Diabetes Federation welcomes the launch by the World Health Organization (WHO) of the first-ever insulin prequalification programme, on the occasion of World Diabetes Day 2019.

The diabetes epidemic shows no sign of relenting. According to the 9th edition of the IDF Diabetes Atlas, over 463 million adults live with diabetes worldwide. Diabetes is responsible for 4.2 million deaths each year and can result in severe complications, disability and a reduced quality of life – much of which could be prevented with proper access to medicines and care.

Unfortunately, the quality of diabetes care varies widely around the world. Continuous and affordable access to essential medicines, such as insulin, remains a major challenge for millions of people living with diabetes – especially in low- and middle-income countries, where 79% of adults with diabetes now live. The WHO prequalification initiative for insulin can play an important role in ensuring that all people with diabetes can access this life-saving medicine without facing financial hardship.

IDF is happy to learn that this is the first of a number of initiatives that WHO will develop in the coming months to address the global impact of diabetes. IDF and its Members stand ready to support WHO’s efforts to achieve better care for all, regardless of where they live.