Why is diabetes research important for New Zealand
Health research changes lives. It’s critical to ensuring we have the knowledge and tools to provide the best possible healthcare for New Zealanders – now and into the future.
New Zealand has some of the highest rates of diabetes in the world, with 40 people a day developing this chronic condition. Our small nation is struggling with the astronomical social and economic costs of diabetes, estimated to be $2.1 billion annually and rising to $3.5 billion in just 20 years*.
With over one million New Zealanders with prediabetes and 300,000 diagnosed with the condition, it’s time to find solutions and make a difference to a condition that affects so many Kiwis.
While diabetes is a global issue, New Zealand has a unique population with unique needs, and that demands local research attention. Māori, Asian and Pacific people are disproportionately affected by type 2 diabetes. Our tamariki and rangatahi are also affected by diabetes (type 1 and 2) so research can help New Zealanders of all ages to live better, more confident lives.
Health research is a costly business but as a small country with specific and urgent needs, there has never been a better time to invest in diabetes research.
