Diabetes, once primarily associated with older adults, is increasingly affecting younger South Koreans. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 11 (Korea Bizwire) – Diabetes, once primarily associated with older adults, is increasingly affecting younger South Koreans, with an estimated 308,000 people in their 20s and 30s living with the condition, according to new data.
The Korean Diabetes Association, ahead of World Diabetes Day on November 14, released its “Diabetes Fact Sheet 2024″ revealing that 2.2% of South Koreans aged 19-39 have diabetes. The numbers show a particularly sharp increase among those in their 30s, with 228,000 cases – nearly triple the 80,000 cases found among those in their 20s.
More alarming is that 21.8% of young adults – approximately 3.03 million people – are in the pre-diabetes stage, with blood glucose levels above normal range. Among men in their 30s, this figure rises to 37%.
Despite these concerning numbers, only 43.3% of young people with diabetes have received an official diagnosis, and just 34.6% are taking prescribed medication.
Diabetes occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use it to manage blood glucose levels. Without proper management, it can lead to serious complications including stroke, heart attack, chronic kidney disease, and vision problems, significantly impacting quality of life and creating substantial healthcare costs.
Medical experts emphasize that while early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, many young people overlook the risk because of the condition’s traditional association with older age groups. The condition requires lifelong management and cannot be cured, making prevention and careful monitoring essential.
Healthcare providers recommend regular blood glucose monitoring through medical check-ups, particularly for those over 20 with a family history of diabetes. Since early-stage diabetes often shows no symptoms, annual screening is recommended for those at risk, while the general population can access blood glucose testing every two years through national health screenings.
Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and following a balanced diet – all crucial for both preventing diabetes and managing blood glucose levels.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
