Dominican Republic faces rising diabetes rates

The Dominican Republic is grappling with a mounting diabetes crisis, as highlighted by the National Institute of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition (INDEN). Recent data reveals that 13.45% of the population is living with diabetes, while an alarming 2.35% remain undiagnosed, leaving them vulnerable to severe health complications. Broader health estimates indicate that 14% of Dominicans have diabetes, and an additional 9.3% are in a prediabetic state, signaling a pressing public health challenge that is overwhelming the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. INDEN has underscored the critical risks associated with undiagnosed diabetes, including heightened chances of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and vision impairment due to delayed treatment. The institution has issued a public appeal for regular health screenings, the adoption of healthier lifestyles, and enhanced early-detection initiatives to curb the escalating impact of this chronic condition on the population.