Dominican Republic faces rising diabetes rates

Santo Domingo.- The National Institute of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition (INDEN) warned of a rising diabetes burden in the Dominican Republic, reporting that 13.45% of the population lives with the disease, while an additional 2.35% are diabetic without knowing it, placing them at higher risk of severe complications. Broader health estimates show that 14% of Dominicans have diabetes and 9.3% are in a prediabetic state, underscoring an escalating public health challenge that is straining the country’s medical system.

INDEN emphasized that undiagnosed diabetes increases the chances of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and other complications due to lack of timely treatment. The institution urged citizens to get regular health screenings, adopt healthier habits, and called for stronger early-detection efforts to mitigate the national impact of this chronic condition.