Singapore's War on Diabetes: Why We're Still Losing, and What You Can Do

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Singapore's War on Diabetes: Why We're Still Losing, and What You Can Do

In April 2016, Singapore's Ministry of Health declared something unusual for a developed, wealthy nation: a "War on Diabetes." Nearly a decade on, the numbers show it's a war we're still very much fighting. Here's what the data actually shows, and where GreenKare Sugar Balance Pro fits into daily life alongside the bigger national effort.

1 in 3

Singaporeans have a lifetime risk of developing diabetes, and the number of residents living with the condition is projected to reach 1 million by 2050 if current trends continue, according to the Ministry of Health.

11.6%

Adult diabetes prevalence in Singapore, among the highest in the developed world

~70%

Of people with prediabetes in a recent local study didn't know they had it

Prevalence has barely moved despite years of effort

Crude diabetes prevalence went from 8.8% in 2017 to 8.5% in 2022 — a marginal shift, despite nationwide education campaigns, Nutri-Grade labelling, and healthier dining initiatives. It's a sobering reminder that awareness campaigns alone haven't been enough to bend the curve.

It's increasingly a young person's problem too

Among Singaporeans aged 18-29, diabetes rates nearly doubled from 6.6% to 11.6% over recent years, and an estimated 14% of 18-19 year olds already have prediabetes — a marked shift from diabetes being seen as a condition of older age.

The awareness gap is a real, documented problem

A 2024 local survey found nearly half of people who believed they didn't have diabetes actually had prediabetes or diabetes, and over a quarter of participants were unsure of their own status entirely — a significant disconnect between perception and reality.

💬 When did you last check your blood sugar?

Recent health screening, years ago, or honestly can't remember? Share in the comments — awareness starts with just knowing where you stand.

Quick tip: A basic blood glucose or HbA1c test is typically included in routine health screenings in Singapore, including under Healthier SG — worth checking if you haven't had yours done recently, especially given how common undiagnosed prediabetes is.

What's in GreenKare Sugar Balance Pro

GreenKare Sugar Balance Pro is a botanical extract formula combining Bitter Gourd, Mulberry Fruit, Propolis Extract, Tartary Buckwheat Extract, and Chromium Picolinate — ingredients associated with supporting healthy blood sugar levels and glucose metabolism as part of a balanced lifestyle, made in Singapore under GMP-certified standards.

GreenKare Sugar Balance Pro

Bitter Gourd, Mulberry, Propolis, Tartary Buckwheat & Chromium, for healthy blood sugar support

Learn more →

The bottom line

Singapore's War on Diabetes has made real efforts, but the numbers show the fight is far from won — especially with a striking share of prediabetes going undiagnosed. Getting screened is the first step; daily support like GreenKare Sugar Balance Pro can be part of a broader lifestyle approach alongside it.

This article is for general health information only and isn't a substitute for medical advice. If you have concerns about your blood sugar, please speak with a doctor.

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