How many people die from diabetes each year? Quick Answer
- In 2023, 95,200 people in the U.S. died from diabetes, down from a peak of 103,000 in 2021.
Diabetes Deaths Over Time
From 1999 to 2023, diabetes-related deaths in the United States have steadily increased, highlighting the growing public health challenge posed by the disease. In 1999, there were 68,400 reported deaths. In the first decade until 2010, annual deaths hovered between 69,000 and 75,000, with minor fluctuations. The numbers began to rise more consistently after 2010, passing 80,000 in 2016 and reaching 87,600 by 2019.
A sharp spike occurred in 2020, when deaths surged to 102,000, likely influenced by COVID-19 complications. The peak came in 2021, with 103,000 diabetes-related deaths—the highest on record. Although deaths declined slightly to 101,000 in 2022 and 95,200 in 2023, the long-term trend shows a significant increase over the 25-year period. This pattern reflects both the rising prevalence of diabetes and the compounding risks of untreated or poorly managed cases.
How Do People Die from Diabetes?
To understand why these numbers matter, it’s important to answer a common question: how do people die from diabetes? Deaths from diabetes often result from complications that arise when blood sugar levels are not managed well over time. These complications can affect major organs and systems throughout the body.
For instance, poorly controlled diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and infections. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of heart attacks and poor circulation. People with advanced diabetes may also suffer from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition caused by a lack of insulin in the body.
Infections and wounds that don’t heal properly, especially in the feet and legs, can lead to sepsis or the need for amputation. Additionally, diabetes can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off illnesses that would otherwise be manageable.
Why the Spike in 2020 and 2021?
The sharp increase in diabetes deaths in 2020 and 2021 likely reflects the broader impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. People with diabetes were identified as a high-risk group for severe COVID-19 complications. Delays in care, limited access to medical services, and reduced routine checkups during lockdowns may have also played a role in worsening diabetes outcomes.
Prevention and Awareness Save Lives
While these numbers are sobering, many diabetes-related deaths can be prevented through better management, early detection, and access to care. Monitoring blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and taking prescribed medications all contribute to lowering the risk of severe complications.
Education is also key. People living with diabetes—and those at risk—should know the warning signs of complications and seek care promptly. Better access to routine screenings and community-based health support can also help reduce mortality.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how many people die from diabetes each year is more than just a statistic—it’s a wake-up call for action. Although the number of deaths slightly declined in 2023, thousands of families still lose loved ones to a disease that is often manageable. By spreading awareness and supporting healthier lifestyles, we can help more people live longer, healthier lives with diabetes.
If you or someone you care about is living with diabetes, staying informed and connected to care could make all the difference.
