Diabetes Costs UK £14 Billion Annually, Highlights Need for Continued Investment in Prevention and Care

Diabetes Costs UK £14 Billion Annually, Highlights Need for Continued Investment in Prevention and Care

(IN BRIEF) A new study reveals that diabetes cost the UK nearly £14 billion in 2021/22, with over £10 billion in direct NHS costs. Complications from diabetes account for the largest share of these costs. Despite advancements in management technologies, diabetes consumes 6% of the UK health budget. The study highlights the importance of continued investment in prevention, particularly as type 2 diabetes cases rise among younger people. Researchers emphasize the need for better data collection and focused prevention strategies to reduce future costs and improve care quality. Supported by Diabetes UK, the research advocates for shifting from crisis management to preventative care to reduce the financial and personal toll of diabetes complications.

(PRESS RELEASE) YORK, 19-Jun-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — A recent study reveals that diabetes cost the UK nearly £14 billion in 2021/22, with direct costs to the NHS exceeding £10 billion. The analysis, which examined the direct and indirect expenses of type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, shows that complications from diabetes account for the largest share of these costs.

Despite advancements in diabetes management technologies, diabetes still consumes 6% of the UK health budget. Over 40% of the expenses are related to diagnosis and treatment, while more than £6 billion is spent on complications that are largely preventable.

Researchers at York Health Economics Consortium, who conducted a similar study in 2012, found that although the proportion of costs related to diabetes complications has decreased over time, these complications, including stroke, amputation, and angina, remain the most significant expense. Indirect costs, such as productivity loss from work absence or death, are estimated at £3.3 billion annually.

Nick Hex, Associate Director for the NHS and Public Sector at the York Health Economics Consortium, emphasized the need for ongoing investment: “Diabetes is a debilitating disease with a substantial cost burden to the NHS, primarily due to preventable complications. Increased investment in technologies helps manage the condition, but the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes in younger people is concerning and underscores the need for focused prevention strategies.”

The study also identified gaps in data collection on diabetes, which are crucial for improving care quality. Hex noted the importance of detailed data by sex, ethnicity, and location to better understand clinical decision drivers and investment needs.

More than 5.6 million people in the UK live with diabetes. With appropriate treatment and support, individuals can manage their condition well, but without it, serious complications arise. Each week, diabetes leads to nearly 3,000 cases of heart failure, over 900 strokes, 660 heart attacks, and 184 amputations.

Supported by Diabetes UK, the research underscores the urgent need to shift from crisis management to preventative care. Colette Marshall, Chief Executive at Diabetes UK, highlighted the potential benefits: “This research shows the massive financial and personal toll of diabetes complications, most of which are preventable with proper care. Focusing on early care and support can reduce harm and lower health service costs.”

The findings call for enhanced prevention, care, and treatment investments to mitigate future costs and improve the lives of those with diabetes.

Media Contact:

Samantha Martin
Deputy Head of Media Relations (job share)
Tel: +44 (0)1904 322029
s.martin@york.ac.uk

SOURCE: University of York