Some 9% of Bulgarians have diabetes, according to Dr. Natalia Temelkova, endocrinologist at Alexandrovska Hospital in Sofia.

Temelkova noted that the actual number of people with diabetes in the country is probably around 600,000, BGNES reports. Childhood obesity rates in Bulgaria have reached 20%, which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, the expert warns.

Worldwide, some 382 million people suffer from diabetes, and their number is expected to reach 592 million by 2030.

Diabetes is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease, blindness, as well as a risk factor for strokes, Nova TV reminds.

Experts advise to pay special attention to the balanced diet and rational nutrition, as well as physical activity.

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