Diabetes has been increasing at an alarming rate since the start of the 21st century, driven by health determinants that are largely related to lifestyle changes and their consequences, such as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. The impact of diabetes has overwhelmed many healthcare systems, particularly those in low and middle-income countries. Reversing the rapid rise in the number of cases and preventing the onset and evolution of diabetes complications should be a common goal.

This is essential to ensure that people who develop diabetes achieve their full life expectancy without compromising their quality of life, while also reducing the economic impact of the condition. A prerequisite to achieving this goal is the ability to measure the distribution of the disease (prevalence and incidence), its determinants (risk factors), and consequences (complications, mortality and health expenditure).

The IDF Guide for Diabetes Epidemiology Studies has been developed to create standardised epidemiological methods in diabetes studies. It will enable researchers to conduct high-quality studies that generate robust data, thereby providing the information needed to develop evidence-based strategies for improving care and strengthening healthcare systems.

Download the IDF Guide for Diabetes Epidemiology Studies

A webinar introducing the Guide, involving a global panel of experts, is available to view below.