The Diabetes Society of Maldives has expressed concern over the growing number of diabetic and at-risk individuals. 

Diabetes Society Chairperson Aishath Shiruhana said that 2000 people in Male' and nearby islands are registered at their clinic. 

Shiruhana reported a surge in Type 1 diabetes, with over 200 children currently undergoing treatment at the society's clinic. Type 1 diabetes is a condition often diagnosed in childhood. 

In Type 1 diabetes, the immune system destroys pancreatic cells that produce insulin, causing a severe deficiency. Insulin injections are essential for treatment. 

In Type 2 diabetes, the body either resists the effectts of insulin or fails to produce enough, causing high blood sugar. This is treated with medication and changes to diet, with insulin injections also necessary in some cases. 

Shiruhana said that the clinic offers all these treatments. Services at the clinic is also covered by Aasandha. 

Shiruhana expressed concern over the growing number of at-risk patients, noting a failure to take personal responsibility despite the availability of resources. 

"Even after screening, we advise of measures that can be taken. But if that is not being acted upon, we won't see the desired results," she said. 

Diabetes Society recently held a Lifestyle Intervention Program in M. Dhiggaru. The one-year program had 120 participants. 

Although the exact number of diabetes patients in Maldives is not known, a 2021 research conducted by the society indicates the number is upwards of 10,000.