Diabetes in the U.S. 2025
Diabetes remains one of the most widespread chronic health conditions in the United States, affecting more than 53 million adults as of 2025. With a total prevalence of 15.8%, diabetes continues to place a significant burden on individuals, families, and the nation’s healthcare system. Both diagnosed and undiagnosed cases are on the rise, driven by risk factors such as obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, and limited access to preventive care in underserved communities. Despite some stabilization in growth rates, disparities persist across age, gender, race, education, and income levels—making diabetes prevention and management a critical public health priority.
This comprehensive report highlights the latest data on diabetes prevalence, incidence, risk factors, complications, and economic impact across the United States. It draws from the most recent national surveys and surveillance systems, providing policymakers, researchers, and healthcare providers with actionable insights. As the nation confronts rising healthcare costs and an aging population, understanding the state of diabetes in 2025 is essential for shaping effective strategies to prevent new cases, improve outcomes, and reduce the long-term burden on the U.S. healthcare infrastructure.
Diabetes Statistics & Facts in the U.S. 2025
| Insight | Detail |
|---|---|
| Overall Prevalence | 15.8% of U.S. adults |
| Diagnosed Adults | ~38 million |
| Undiagnosed Adults | ~15 million |
| Higher Risk in Men | Yes |
| 1 in 4 Obese Adults Have Diabetes | Yes |
| Lower Education = Higher Risk | Up to 2× more common |
| Undiagnosed Rate is Stable | Yes |
| National Growth Stabilizing Since 2017 | Yes |
As of 2025, diabetes continues to be a significant public health issue in the United States, with 15.8% of U.S. adults affected. Of these, approximately 38 million adults have been formally diagnosed, while an estimated 15 million remain undiagnosed—a concerning figure that emphasizes the importance of regular screening and preventive care. The risk is not evenly distributed; men face a higher likelihood of developing diabetes, and 1 in 4 obese adults is affected, highlighting the close link between obesity and metabolic disorders.
Education level also plays a critical role in diabetes risk. Adults with lower educational attainment are up to twice as likely to have diabetes compared to those with higher education. While these disparities are alarming, the rate of undiagnosed diabetes has remained stable, suggesting that awareness and testing efforts may be helping to hold the line. Furthermore, the overall national prevalence growth has shown signs of stabilization since 2017, offering a potential turning point in the fight against diabetes—though this plateau demands continued investment in health education, prevention, and lifestyle intervention programs.
Total Diabetes Cases in the United States (2021)
| Category | Number of People | Percentage of U.S. Population |
|---|---|---|
| Total (All Ages) in the U.S. | 38.4 million | 11.6% |
| Adults (18+) in the U.S. | 38.1 million | 14.7% |
| Diagnosed in the U.S. | 29.7 million (29.4M adults) | – |
| Undiagnosed in the U.S. | 8.7 million | 3.4% of adults / 22.8% of diabetes cases |
| Age 65+ in the U.S. | – | 29.2% |
In 2021, an estimated 38.4 million people across all ages in the United States had diabetes, accounting for 11.6% of the total population. Among adults aged 18 and older, the figure was nearly the same—38.1 million adults, translating to a 14.7% prevalence rate in the adult population. Out of these, 29.7 million had received a formal diagnosis, including 29.4 million adults. That leaves 8.7 million adults undiagnosed, which represents 3.4% of the adult population and 22.8% of all diabetes cases, pointing to a major gap in detection and care.
The elderly are disproportionately affected: nearly 1 in 3 adults aged 65 and over (29.2%) live with diabetes, illustrating the heavy burden on Medicare and senior care services. The large proportion of undiagnosed cases (nearly 1 in 4 among diabetics) signals a need for expanded screening, especially for those with risk factors like obesity, sedentary lifestyle, or family history. With diabetes affecting over 1 in 9 Americans of all ages, and nearly 1 in 7 adults, it remains one of the most critical chronic disease challenges in U.S. healthcare today.
Overall Diabetes Prevalence in the United States (2025)
| Metric | % of U.S. Adults |
|---|---|
| Total Diabetes in the U.S. | 15.8% |
| Diagnosed in the U.S. | 11.3% |
| Undiagnosed in the U.S. | 4.5% |
| Age-Adjusted Total in the U.S. | 14.3% |
| Age-Adjusted Diagnosed in the U.S. | 10.1% |
| Age-Adjusted Undiagnosed in the U.S. | 4.2% |
As of 2025, an estimated 15.8% of U.S. adults are living with diabetes, indicating that nearly 1 in 6 adults is affected by the disease. Of this total, 11.3% have been diagnosed, while another 4.5% remain undiagnosed, showing a significant burden of unrecognized diabetes across the adult population. This underdiagnosis continues to pose a major threat to public health, as individuals unaware of their condition are less likely to receive timely treatment or make necessary lifestyle changes.
Age-adjusted figures provide further insight into population-standardized prevalence. The age-adjusted total diabetes rate is slightly lower at 14.3%, with 10.1% diagnosed and 4.2% undiagnosed, accounting for the older age distribution often associated with diabetes. This adjustment reflects efforts to normalize data across different age groups for better comparability. The consistency between crude and adjusted values highlights the pervasive nature of diabetes regardless of age, reinforcing the urgency for continued national efforts in prevention, early detection, and chronic disease management strategies.
Diabetes by Age & Gender in the United States (2025)
Diabetes Prevalence by Age Group – U.S. Adults (2025)
| Age Group | Total (%) | Diagnosed (%) | Undiagnosed (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–39 | 3.6 | 2.2 | 1.3 |
| 40–59 | 17.7 | 12.1 | 5.6 |
| 60+ | 27.3 | 20.5 | 6.8 |
Diabetes Prevalence by Gender – U.S. Adults (2025)
| Gender | Total (%) | Diagnosed (%) | Undiagnosed (%) | Age-Adjusted (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men | 18.0 | 12.9 | 5.1 | 16.6 |
| Women | 13.7 | 9.7 | 4.0 | 12.2 |
In 2025, diabetes prevalence in the U.S. shows a clear upward trend with age. Adults aged 20–39 years have the lowest rate, with a total prevalence of 3.6%, including 2.2% diagnosed and 1.3% undiagnosed. In the 40–59 age group, prevalence jumps significantly to 17.7%, with 12.1% diagnosed and 5.6% undiagnosed, indicating the onset of mid-life metabolic risks. The most impacted group is those aged 60 and older, with a striking 27.3% total prevalence—more than 1 in 4—comprising 20.5% diagnosed and 6.8% undiagnosed. This clearly shows the age-related escalation of diabetes, emphasizing the importance of screening in older populations.
Gender disparities are also notable. In 2025, men had a higher total diabetes prevalence at 18.0%, with 12.9% diagnosed and 5.1% undiagnosed, compared to 13.7% total in women, 9.7% diagnosed, and 4.0% undiagnosed. When adjusted for age, men’s rate was 16.6%, still considerably higher than the 12.2% for women. These differences reflect both biological and behavioral factors, including higher rates of obesity, physical inactivity, and metabolic syndrome among men. The higher undiagnosed percentage in both sexes also underscores the need for regular testing—especially in individuals over 40 and those with family history or lifestyle risk factors.
Diabetes Prevalence by Race and Ethnicity in the United States (2025)
Diabetes Prevalence by Major Racial and Ethnic Groups – U.S. Adults
| Group | Diabetes Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
| American Indian/Alaska Native | 13.6 |
| Non-Hispanic Black | 12.1 |
| Hispanic | 11.7 |
| Non-Hispanic Asian | 9.1 |
| Non-Hispanic White | 6.9 |
Diabetes Prevalence by Ethnic Subgroup – U.S. Adults
| Subgroup | Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
| Puerto Rican | 13.3 |
| Filipino | 12.2 |
| Mexican American | 11.1 |
| Asian Indian | 10.8 |
| Chinese | 7.1 |
| Vietnamese | 6.4 |
| Korean | 6.1 |
As of 2025, diabetes continues to disproportionately affect certain racial and ethnic populations in the United States. Among the major groups, American Indian and Alaska Native adults have the highest prevalence at 13.6%, reflecting deeply rooted healthcare and socioeconomic disparities. Non-Hispanic Black adults follow closely at 12.1%, while Hispanic adults report a prevalence of 11.7%, underscoring the impact of lifestyle, access barriers, and inherited risk. Meanwhile, Non-Hispanic Asian adults have a prevalence of 9.1%, which, although lower, is still significantly above the rate for Non-Hispanic White adults (6.9%)—the group with the lowest diabetes prevalence among the major racial categories.
Breaking it down further, striking differences are seen among ethnic subgroups. Puerto Ricans have one of the highest prevalence rates at 13.3%, nearly mirroring that of American Indian/Alaska Natives. Filipinos follow at 12.2%, and Mexican Americans show a significant rate of 11.1%. Asian Indians, who are genetically predisposed to insulin resistance, report a high 10.8% prevalence. Even within Asian communities, disparities exist: Chinese adults show a 7.1% rate, Vietnamese adults 6.4%, and Korean adults the lowest at 6.1%. These numbers highlight the urgent need for targeted and culturally sensitive diabetes prevention, education, and care strategies to address both broad racial disparities and more specific ethnic vulnerabilities within the U.S. population.
Socio-economic Impact on Diabetes in the United States (2025)
Diabetes Prevalence by Education Level – U.S. Adults
| Education Level | Total (%) | Diagnosed (%) |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ High School / GED | 19.6 | 14.6 |
| Some College | 17.2 | 12.0 |
| Bachelor’s or Higher | 10.7 | 7.3 |
Diabetes Prevalence by Weight Category (BMI) – U.S. Adults
| Weight Category | Total (%) | Diagnosed (%) | Undiagnosed (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMI <25 (Normal) | 6.8 | 5.2 | 1.6 |
| Overweight | 12.3 | 9.5 | 2.8 |
| Obese | 24.2 | 16.3 | 7.9 |
Diabetes Prevalence by Income Group – U.S. Adults
| Income Group (>500% FPL) | Men (%) | Women (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 6.3 | 3.9 |
Geographic Note:
- Higher prevalence observed in nonmetropolitan areas
- County-level range: 4.4% to 17.9%
- Median county prevalence (2021): 8.3%
Socioeconomic status plays a crucial role in diabetes prevalence across the U.S. population. Adults with lower educational attainment face a significantly higher burden: those with a high school diploma or less have a 19.6% diabetes rate, with 14.6% diagnosed. This contrasts with 10.7% total prevalence and 7.3% diagnosed among those with a bachelor’s degree or higher illustrating that people with higher education levels are nearly 50% less likely to develop diabetes. Adults with some college education fall in the middle, at 17.2% total and 12.0% diagnosed. These figures strongly link educational disadvantage to increased health risks.
Body weight further compounds this effect. Adults with a normal BMI (<25) report a 6.8% total prevalence, while rates jump to 12.3% for overweight individuals and 24.2% for obese adults. Among the obese group, 16.3% are diagnosed and 7.9% remain undiagnosed, showing the serious metabolic risk excess weight carries. Income also matters—among those earning more than 500% of the federal poverty level (FPL), diabetes prevalence is lower: 6.3% for men and 3.9% for women, suggesting a protective effect of financial stability. Finally, geography reveals disparity too: nonmetropolitan areas face higher diabetes rates, with county-level prevalence ranging from 4.4% to 17.9%, and a national median of 8.3% (2021). Together, these patterns highlight how education, income, body weight, and geography intersect to shape diabetes risk in America.
Pediatric Diabetes Statistics – U.S. (2025)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Diagnosed (under 20) | 352,000 |
| Type 1 Diabetes Cases | 304,000 |
| Prevalence Rate (per 10,000) | 35 |
As of 2025, diabetes continues to affect a growing number of children and adolescents in the United States, with 352,000 individuals under the age of 20 diagnosed with the condition. Of these cases, Type 1 diabetes accounts for 304,000, making up the overwhelming majority of pediatric diabetes diagnoses. This high proportion reflects the autoimmune nature of the disease in youth populations, as Type 1 diabetes often manifests earlier in life and requires lifelong insulin therapy and management.
The prevalence rate of diabetes among U.S. children and adolescents stands at 35 per 10,000, illustrating a serious public health concern. Early-onset diabetes poses unique challenges, including managing blood sugar through puberty, increased risks of complications over a longer lifespan, and psychosocial burdens related to daily disease management. These figures highlight the need for targeted intervention strategies, increased access to pediatric endocrinology care, and education for schools and families to support children living with diabetes.
Prediabetes Prevalence in the United States (2025)
Prediabetes Prevalence by Group – U.S. Adults (2025)
| Group | Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
| Adults | 38.0 |
| Age 65+ | 48.8 |
| Men | 41.9 |
| Women | 34.3 |
Awareness of Prediabetes – U.S. Adults (2025)
| Metric | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Aware of Condition | 19.0 |
In 2025, prediabetes affects a significant portion of the U.S. population, with 38.0% of all adults estimated to have the condition—meaning more than 1 in 3 adults are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if no intervention is made. Prevalence rises dramatically with age: 48.8% of Americans aged 65 and older have prediabetes, highlighting the vulnerability of older adults to impaired glucose regulation. Gender differences also persist: 41.9% of men are affected, compared to 34.3% of women, indicating that men are at slightly higher risk, possibly due to higher rates of abdominal obesity, inactivity, or other metabolic factors.
Despite this widespread prevalence, only 19.0% of adults with prediabetes are aware of their condition, pointing to a significant gap in screening, diagnosis, and public education. This low awareness is concerning, as early lifestyle interventions can prevent or delay the progression to type 2 diabetes. These findings underscore the urgent need for expanded national efforts in prediabetes detection, community health campaigns, and improved communication between healthcare providers and patients—especially among older adults and high-risk male populations.
Diabetes Incidence in the United States (2025)
New Diagnosed Diabetes Cases by Age Group – U.S. Adults
| Age Group | New Cases per 1,000 People |
|---|---|
| 18–44 | 3.0 |
| 45–64 | 10.1 |
| 65+ | 6.8 |
| All Adults | 5.9 |
In 2025, the overall incidence of newly diagnosed diabetes among adults in the United States stands at 5.9 cases per 1,000 people. However, the rate of new diagnoses varies significantly by age. Adults aged 45–64 years show the highest incidence rate at 10.1 new cases per 1,000, reflecting a critical period of risk associated with aging, weight gain, and metabolic slowdown. Among seniors aged 65 and older, the incidence is slightly lower at 6.8 per 1,000, possibly reflecting both earlier detection and higher prevalence (since many older adults may already have diabetes).
For younger adults aged 18–44, the incidence rate is much lower at 3.0 per 1,000, but this group still represents a major concern. Early-onset diabetes can lead to decades of disease burden and complications. These figures highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies across all age groups, with an emphasis on midlife adults, who are developing the disease at the highest rates. National health campaigns should focus on risk reduction through lifestyle changes, especially during the 45–64 age window when the incidence peaks.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Statistics in the United States (2025)
| Diabetes Type | Adults | Youth |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 1.7 million | 304,000 |
| Type 2 | Majority of cases | – |
| On Insulin | 3.6 million (12.3%) | – |
In 2025, an estimated 1.7 million U.S. adults are living with type 1 diabetes, a chronic autoimmune condition requiring lifelong insulin therapy. Among youth, 304,000 individuals under age 20 are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, accounting for the vast majority of diabetes cases in children and adolescents. Type 1 diabetes, while less common than type 2 overall, carries a higher burden of day-to-day management and risk of acute complications, especially in younger populations.
Type 2 diabetes continues to make up the majority of adult diabetes cases in the United States, although a specific count is not detailed in this dataset. It is largely preventable and driven by modifiable risk factors such as obesity, inactivity, and poor diet. Meanwhile, 3.6 million adults—or 12.3% of all individuals with diabetes—are using insulin, underscoring the severity and progression of the disease across both types. The need for insulin therapy is especially notable in people with long-standing type 2 diabetes or poorly controlled glucose levels. These statistics emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, effective disease management, and greater access to insulin for those who depend on it.
Risk Factors Linked to Diabetes in the United States (2025)
Weight and Glycemic Control Metrics – U.S. Adults with Diabetes
| Metric | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Overweight/Obese | 89.8 |
| A1C ≥7.0% | 47.4 |
| ABC Goals Met | 11.1 |
Cardiovascular Risk Markers – U.S. Adults with Diabetes
| Metric | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| BP ≥130/80 mmHg or on meds | 80.6 |
| Non-HDL ≥130 mg/dL | 39.5 |
Lifestyle Behaviors – U.S. Adults with Diabetes
| Behavior | % of Adults with Diabetes |
|---|---|
| Physically Inactive | 31.9 |
| Tobacco Use | 22.1 |
| Meet Activity Guidelines | 24.1 |
As of 2025, the vast majority of U.S. adults with diabetes face serious modifiable risk factors that compound their health outcomes. Nearly 90% (89.8%) of adults with diabetes are overweight or obese, a critical contributor to insulin resistance and disease progression. In terms of glucose control, 47.4% have an A1C level ≥7.0%, indicating suboptimal management of blood sugar levels. Alarmingly, only 11.1% meet the recommended ABC goals—which typically include optimal levels of A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol—showing that most patients are not reaching the full spectrum of control targets needed to reduce complications.
Cardiovascular risk is also highly prevalent among this population. 80.6% have elevated blood pressure (≥130/80 mmHg) or are on antihypertensive medications, placing them at high risk for heart disease and stroke. Additionally, 39.5% have non-HDL cholesterol levels of 130 mg/dL or higher, which is associated with atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular events. Lifestyle habits further aggravate the risk: 31.9% of adults with diabetes are physically inactive, and 22.1% still use tobacco, both of which are detrimental to disease outcomes. On the positive side, only 24.1% meet physical activity guidelines, indicating that most adults with diabetes are falling short of recommended exercise levels. These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive lifestyle interventions and support systems to improve diabetes outcomes nationwide.
Emergency and Hospital Use for Diabetes in the United States (2025)
Emergency Department Visits and Hospitalizations – U.S. (2025)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| ED Visits (Diabetes-Related) | 16.8 million |
| Hyperglycemic Crisis Events | 267,000 |
| Hypoglycemia Events | 202,000 |
| Hospital Discharges (with Diabetes) | 7.86 million |
In 2025, diabetes continues to exert a significant burden on the U.S. healthcare system, particularly through emergency care and hospitalizations. A total of 16.8 million emergency department (ED) visits were related to diabetes, reflecting both acute complications and uncontrolled chronic management. Among these, 267,000 visits were due to hyperglycemic crises—severe elevations in blood glucose that can result in diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar states, both of which are life-threatening if not promptly treated. Hypoglycemia-related visits totaled 202,000, often occurring in patients on insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, underscoring the need for tight therapeutic control and patient education.
Hospitalization rates remain high as well, with 7.86 million hospital discharges involving patients with diabetes, either as a primary or secondary diagnosis. This number reflects how commonly diabetes coexists with other serious conditions such as cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, or infection. These figures highlight the critical need for better outpatient management, medication adherence, glucose monitoring, and preventive interventions to reduce avoidable emergencies and hospital stays. Effective care coordination and support systems—especially for high-risk patients—could help alleviate this pressure on emergency services and reduce healthcare costs.
Long-Term Diabetes Complications in the United States (2025)
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Among Adults with Diabetes
| CKD Stage | Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
| Stage 1–4 CKD | 39.2% |
| Stage 3–4 CKD | 15.7% |
| CKD Awareness | 32.5% |
| ESRD (2023 est.) | 61,522 cases |
Other Major Complications – U.S. Adults with Diabetes
| Condition | Rate / % |
|---|---|
| Severe Vision Trouble | 10.1% |
| Lower-Limb Amputation | 6.8 per 1,000 |
As of 2025, chronic complications from diabetes continue to affect a large portion of the U.S. diabetic population. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common and serious long-term effects, with 39.2% of adults with diabetes showing signs of Stage 1 through 4 CKD, indicating varying levels of kidney damage. Within that, 15.7% of individuals are in Stage 3 or 4, a more advanced and risky stage often requiring close medical supervision and possibly preparing for dialysis. Despite these high numbers, only 32.5% of adults with diabetes who have CKD are aware of their condition—highlighting a dangerous knowledge gap in preventive care. In 2023, an estimated 61,522 people with diabetes progressed to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or kidney transplant, further emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.
Beyond kidney disease, other complications are also prevalent. Severe vision trouble affects 10.1% of adults with diabetes, likely due to diabetic retinopathy and other ocular issues stemming from prolonged high blood sugar. Perhaps more alarming is the lower-limb amputation rate of 6.8 per 1,000 people, driven by neuropathy, infections, and poor circulation. This rate reflects both disease severity and gaps in preventive foot care. These complications are not only life-altering but also drive up healthcare costs and reduce quality of life. The data underline the need for comprehensive chronic complication screening, increased awareness, and better patient support systems to slow disease progression and improve outcomes for millions of Americans living with diabetes.
Diabetes Mortality and Cost Burden in the United States (2025)
Mortality and Economic Impact of Diabetes – U.S.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Deaths (Diabetes as Cause) – 2021 | 103,294 |
| Total Mentions of Diabetes on Death Certificates | 399,401 |
| Total Economic Burden – 2022 | $413 billion |
| Direct Costs | $307 billion |
| Indirect Costs | $106 billion |
| Per-Person Excess Medical Cost | $12,022 |
Diabetes remains a major cause of death and a substantial economic burden in the United States. In 2021, the disease was listed as the underlying cause of death for 103,294 Americans, while diabetes was mentioned on a total of 399,401 death certificates, reflecting its role as a significant contributing factor to multiple fatal conditions such as cardiovascular disease and kidney failure. These figures highlight the pervasive influence of diabetes on mortality outcomes in the U.S. healthcare landscape.
Financially, the cost of managing diabetes is staggering. In 2022, the total economic burden reached $413 billion, composed of $307 billion in direct medical expenses—such as hospitalizations, medications, and outpatient visits—and $106 billion in indirect costs, including lost productivity, absenteeism, and premature mortality. On an individual level, people with diabetes incur an average of $12,022 in excess medical costs per year compared to those without the condition. These numbers underscore the urgent need for national strategies that focus on prevention, earlier diagnosis, better chronic disease management, and policies that reduce the long-term financial impact of diabetes on families and the healthcare system alike.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
