EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DIABETES MELLITUS IN UZBEKISTAN
Keywords:
diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes, T2DM, Uzbekistan, epidemiology, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, HbA1c, diabetic complications, preventionAbstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease of global significance, affecting over 537 million adults worldwide as of 2022, with projections reaching 783 million by 2045. This review examines the epidemiological characteristics of diabetes mellitus in Uzbekistan, analyzing regional distribution patterns, key modifiable risk factors, chronic complication burden, and the effectiveness of national prevention and treatment programs. According to the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan, more than 350,000 patients were registered with diabetes in 2023, with actual prevalence estimated to be 2–3 times higher due to underdiagnosis. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) constitutes 90–92% of all cases. Major risk factors including obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy dietary patterns are analyzed in the context of rapid urbanization in Central Asia. National programs — including the 'Healthy Life' initiative (2020–2025), expansion of diabetology centers, and universal insulin supply — are evaluated against international standards (ADA, 2023; WHO, 2023). Early diagnosis, primary prevention reinforcement, and improved patient education are identified as priority strategic directions for reducing the diabetes burden in Uzbekistan.
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