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IN ADDITION to the progressive deterioration of a diabetes patient’s quality-of-life and the increased risk of premature death, diabetes and the resulting complications take a staggering economic toll on society. In 2002, the direct and indirect medical cost of diabetes were $132 billion and the total U.S. health expenditure was $865 billion, which means that more than one out of every 10 health-care dollars were spent to combat this disease. The annual medical cost related to diabetes is expected to increase to $156 billion by 2010, and soar to $192 billion by 2020 (in 2002 dollars).*
The economic cost is distributed across the American population as diabetes is pervasive throughout the gender, age, and ethnic landscape.**
- Men and women are equally likely to develop diabetes, with almost nine percent of each gender having the disorder.
- People age 60 and over are the most prevalent segment of the population to have diabetes. Indeed, over 18 percent of seniors have been diagnosed, and this “baby boomer” population is ever-increasing.
- The incidence of juvenile diabetes, which once was relatively low, is becoming a major health problem. Type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes is now more common in teenagers and children. While national statistics are not yet available, clinic-based reports and regional statistics indicate that the incidence among juveniles is alarming. Over 200,000 people under age 20 now have diabetes with the incidence steadily increasing.
- American Indian, African American, and Hispanic/Latino populations are hit the hardest. Eighteen percent of the American Indian population has diabetes, making it the single most afflicted ethnic group, with thirteen percent of African Americans and twelve percent of Hispanic/Latinos having been diagnosed with diabetes. Non-Hispanic whites account for about eight percent of those with this disease.
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The incidence of diabetes across all population segments is expected to continue increasing. As medical costs increase accordingly—whether to treat diabetes or its many complications—the monetary costs to manage this disease weigh heavily on the American economy. By successfully treating this disorder, and thereby decreasing the incidence of associated complications, the Institute’s therapeutic agent stands to make an immense impact, not only in terms of economics but also in terms of the diabetes patient, the one who carries the greatest burden, the most significant cost.
* American Diabetes Association
** The National Institutes of Health |
