14 November – World Diabetes Day
An estimated 43% of adults living with diabetes worldwide don’t know they have it. World Diabetes Day is on 14 November and the 2026 theme is Early action on diabetes. Know your risk, recognise the warning signs and learn how to manage diabetes.
We are family: the impacts of diabetes on the family
Families play an important role in recognising the warning signs of diabetes and supporting those living with the condition.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that often requires a lifelong commitment to self-care for those that have it and as such, families play a key role of support. Evidence shows that a good network of family support has important benefits for people with diabetes.
However, having a family member with diabetes can have a big impact on families. Parents of children with diabetes often have to reduce their work hours, directly impacting them financially. The cost of accessing diabetes care in some countries can also be difficult. There are a number of effects on families including on their emotional wellbeing, financial situation, time and money for leisure activities and physical health.
The World Diabetes Day campaign sets out to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and awareness, while recognising the key role these families play in supporting people with diabetes.
Families: do you know the warning signs?
- Alarmingly, an estimated 43% of adults aged 20–79 living with diabetes worldwide were unaware they had the condition in 2024, according to the International Diabetes Federation’s Diabetes Atlas, 11th edition (2025).
- Recognising the warning signs is important, particularly as some people with diabetes may experience few or no symptoms.
- What is clear from this data is that more education is needed and it is vital we learn to recognise the warning signs of diabetes as left untreated or unmanaged, diabetes can lead to life-changing complications. Diabetes was associated with an estimated 3.4 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
- Detecting diabetes early is vital in managing this condition and families play a pivotal role in this detection, but must learn to know the warning signs first. Type 2 diabetes in particular may be prevented or delayed in many cases through healthy lifestyle choices – reducing risk starts at home.
- Families, unite. Visit World Diabetes Day to learn more about diabetes and access resources to help you recognise the warning signs and understand the risk factors.
If you are concerned about your risk of diabetes or recognise any warning signs, speak with your GP for advice.
Originally published by Allied Osteopathy. Updated for World Diabetes Day 2026.
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