Diabetes in Albania: 150,000 People Affected, 50,000 May Be Undiagnosed

Diabetes on the Rise in Albania: 150,000 People May Be Affected, Thousands Unaware of Their Condition

 

Diabetes is becoming an increasingly important public health concern in Albania, with thousands of people potentially living with the disease without knowing they are affected.

According to figures reported by Top Channel (TCH), approximately 100,000 people are currently receiving treatment for diabetes in the country. However, estimates suggest that another 50,000 may have the disease without having been diagnosed.

The reported figures indicate a growing trend, with between 8,000 and 10,000 new cases recorded every year.

Population ageing, stress and increasingly sedentary lifestyles are among the factors cited as contributing to the situation.

Diabetes increasingly affecting younger generations

Particular concern surrounds the presence of diabetes among children and young people.

Approximately 400 children and adolescents aged between one and 18 are reported to have Type 1 diabetes, a chronic condition requiring continuous treatment, insulin therapy and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels.

The disease can also remain undetected for a considerable period, particularly in its early stages. Without timely diagnosis and appropriate management, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including damage to the cardiovascular system and kidneys.

Doctors call for early diagnosis and regular check-ups

On the occasion of World Diabetes Day, the head of the Endocrinology Service in Albania called for greater awareness, regular medical examinations and early diagnosis.

Identifying the disease before serious complications develop remains an important part of reducing its long-term impact on patients and the healthcare system.

Meanwhile, the director of the Mother Teresa University Hospital Centre (QSUT) announced changes intended to make healthcare services more accessible to people living with diabetes.

Under the new arrangements, patients can complete the necessary procedures at QSUT within a single day, without having to return to their local health centres to finish the process.

Blood glucose monitoring sensors for children expected to be reimbursed

Another development concerns children living with diabetes and access to modern glucose-monitoring technology.

According to the announcement, reimbursement for blood glucose monitoring sensors for children with diabetes is expected to begin next year.

These devices allow patients and their families to monitor glucose levels more continuously, helping them manage the condition and respond to changes more effectively.

A growing public health challenge for Albania

The figures reported by Top Channel highlight the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and access to appropriate treatment.

With approximately 100,000 diagnosed patients and an estimated additional 50,000 potentially unaware of their condition, diabetes represents a significant challenge for Albania's healthcare system.

Greater public awareness, accessible medical examinations and improved monitoring technologies will be essential in addressing the growing number of cases and reducing the risk of long-term complications.