National Diabetes Association reveals 250,000 Ghanaians are undiagnosed

During the launch of World Diabetes Day 2026, the National Diabetes Association revealed that approximately 250,000 Ghanaians are living with diabetes without knowing it. This figure represents an alarming 78.7 percent of the total diabetic population in the country, meaning nearly four out of five affected individuals are unaware of their condition. Elizabeth Denyoh, representing President John Mahama at the event, highlighted the urgent need for increased awareness and early medical intervention to manage the rising epidemic.

The statistics shared during the launch indicate that the local trend mirrors a growing global health crisis. Currently, an estimated 589 million adults are living with diabetes worldwide, with projections suggesting these numbers will rise significantly in the coming years. Denyoh emphasized that the high rate of undiagnosed cases in Ghana often leads to late-stage complications that could have been prevented with earlier detection and consistent management.

To address the gap in diagnosis, the National Diabetes Association is urging the public, particularly those in high-risk categories, to undergo regular screenings. The association stressed that knowing one's status is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term health. The launch event served as a critical platform to call for collaborative efforts involving the government, the healthcare sector, and civil society organizations to improve access to testing and affordable care across the country.

World Diabetes Day 2026 aims to consolidate these efforts by fostering a unified national response to the disease. By prioritizing early screening and sustainable treatment plans, health officials hope to reduce the long-term impact of diabetes on Ghana’s healthcare system and the broader economy. The government and its partners remain committed to expanding public health education to ensure that more Ghanaians can lead healthier lives through informed medical choices.