Diabetes Cases Surge in Erbil as Health Officials Warn of Hidden Crisis

The Kurdistan Post

Diabetes Cases Surge in Erbil as Health Officials Warn of Hidden Crisis

Erbil has witnessed a sharp rise in newly diagnosed diabetes cases, with health authorities confirming that more than 1,100 people were officially registered with the disease over the past ten months alone. Medical experts warn that the true scale of the problem is likely far greater, as many individuals remain undiagnosed or unregistered.

The director of Galiawa Diabetes and Endocrinology Teaching Center, Mahdi Hamadamin, revealed that 1,120 new diabetes cases were recorded between January and October. He noted that these figures only represent documented cases and do not reflect the significant number of patients who have not yet sought medical attention.

The Galiawa Center operates in coordination with the Erbil Directorate of Health under the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Health, serving as one of the primary institutions monitoring diabetes trends in the province.

Rising Numbers Across Kurdistan and Iraq

Recent data highlights a broader regional crisis. More than 100,000 people are currently living with diabetes across the Kurdistan Region, with Erbil reporting the highest concentration of cases. Medical centers are registering approximately 5,000 new diabetes cases every year, a figure that excludes undiagnosed individuals who may be living with the disease unknowingly.

During a recent health awareness panel hosted by Erbil International Hospital, experts shared alarming statistics showing that Iraq recorded approximately 2.7 million diabetes cases last year, a dramatic rise from fewer than half a million cases in 2000. Future projections suggest this figure could climb to six million by 2050 if preventive measures are not strengthened.

Growing Impact on Children and Youth

The rise is not limited to adults. According to Galiawa Center records, 66 new diabetes cases were diagnosed among children this year alone. Since the center’s opening in October 2024, more than 53,000 patients have been registered and are receiving treatment through organized prescription systems.

Medical professionals stress that the increasing occurrence of diabetes among younger age groups is a serious warning sign pointing to lifestyle changes, poor nutrition, and reduced physical activity.

Health Experts Call for Early Testing and Prevention

Dr. Dilshad Muhammed Chomani, a specialist in general surgery and thyroid disorders, explained that diabetes is becoming more prevalent worldwide and is increasingly affecting children. He cautioned that untreated diabetes can lead to severe complications such as vision loss, kidney failure, nerve damage, and cardiovascular disease.

He emphasized that early testing and regular monitoring play a crucial role in preventing long-term damage and improving quality of life for patients.

Global Context of the Diabetes Epidemic

According to the International Diabetes Federation’s 2025 Diabetes Atlas, nearly 589 million adults aged 20 to 79 worldwide are living with diabetes. Around 252 million cases remain undiagnosed, while the disease contributes to approximately 3.4 million deaths each year.

This global trend mirrors what is currently unfolding in Erbil and the wider Kurdistan Region, highlighting the urgent need for stronger public health strategies, awareness campaigns, and preventive healthcare programs.

Outlook for Erbil

Health officials are urging residents to prioritize regular medical check-ups, adopt healthier lifestyles, and seek early screening, especially for those with family history or risk factors. Without decisive intervention, diabetes could place an overwhelming burden on Erbil’s healthcare system in the coming years.