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2021-2022 Diabetes Burden Report
The most recent diabetes-related results from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System showed that in 2022, among adults in Illinois:
- 12.2% (1 in 8) had ever been told they have diabetes.
- 12.0% (1 in 8) had ever been told they have prediabetes (note: most cases of prediabetes are undiagnosed).
- The prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes continued to increase over time.
- There was a disproportionately high prevalence of diabetes among those who were older, had a lower household income, received less education, had a disability, had health insurance, had a primary health care provider, received regular checkups, or had a common comorbid health condition, including obesity, heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of heart attack or stroke.
- There was a disproportionately high prevalence of prediabetes among those who were older, Black and non-Hispanic, had a lower household income, had a disability, had a primary health care provider, received regular checkups, had a chronic health condition, had a history of heart attack, or were overweight or obese.
- Diabetes and prediabetes have significant effects on overall physical and mental health.
- Among Illinois adults, 79.4% were up to date with recommended diabetes screening, with disproportionately lower rates of screening observed among those who were younger, male, Hispanic, had received less education, living outside of Chicagoland, did not have health insurance, and had no chronic health conditions.
- More work is needed to meet the Healthy People 2030 goals of reducing diabetes incidence and increasing the proportion of people with diabetes who get annual eye exams, take a diabetes self-management class, and monitor their blood sugar daily if using insulin.
The prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in Illinois reflects national rates. Although the diabetic screening rates in Illinois were much higher than national rates, diabetes and prediabetes remain underdiagnosed. Continued screening efforts and support following diagnoses, as have been increased recently by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Illinois Department of Public Health, and Illinois state government, will be key to ensuring Illinoisians, especially those who are medically underserved or face disproportionate risk, receive the health care they need.
