IN CONVERSATION WITH PITSO MOLEMANE

Diabetes is often perceived as a condition that primarily affects older adults, yet the disease is becoming an increasingly urgent public health concern across all age groups, including young people and students. University students and young professionals often face unique health challenges such as poor eating habits, high stress levels, limited physical activity and irregular sleep patterns, all of which can increase their risk of developing chronic illnesses later in life. Globally, diabetes continues to rise at an alarming rate, with the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimating that 589 million adults aged 20 to 79 are living with diabetes worldwide, while approximately 8 million children and young adults under 20 are living with Type 1 diabetes.
The situation in South Africa is equally concerning. According to the latest IDF Diabetes Atlas, an estimated 2.3 million South African adults are living with diabetes, making South Africa one of the countries with the highest diabetes burden in Africa. Perhaps more worrying is that approximately 70% of South Africans living with diabetes are unaware they have the condition, highlighting the critical need for improved screening, education and early detection. Diabetes is no longer simply a health issue affecting older generations. It is increasingly becoming a lifestyle and wellness issue that young people need to understand before complications arise.