Ebola in the DRC: A different problem compounded by violence.

Diabetes mellitus is a major global public health challenge. In 2021, its prevalence among individuals aged 20–79 years reached 10.5% (536.6 million people) and is projected to increase to 12.2% (783.2 million) by 2045, with most affected individuals living in low- and middle-income countries []. In Brazil, the prevalence of self-reported diabetes increased from 6.2% in 2013 to 7.7% in 2019 among adults aged 18 years and over []. Furthermore, national estimates suggest substantial underdiagnosis and inadequate disease control, highlighting important gaps in diabetes care []. Diabetes and its complications are unevenly distributed across population groups. Women experience a greater burden of cardiovascular complications and mortality, whereas men are more frequently affected by microvascular complications [,]. Racial disparities are also evident, with black individuals presenting higher diabetes-related mortality and poorer clinical outcomes than white individuals [,]. Although socioeconomic disadvantage contributes to these inequalities [], evidence suggests that structural racism plays an important role in shaping differential access to education, income, housing, and healthcare, thereby influencing diabetes risk and management [,]. Socioeconomic deprivation further affects diabetes self-management and access to healthcare. Financial constraints may limit access to medications, healthy diets, and healthcare services, contributing to poorer disease control and a higher risk of complications [–]. Although Brazil’s Unified Health System provides universal access to diabetes diagnosis and treatment, substantial inequalities remain in disease awareness, treatment, and glycemic control, particularly among socially vulnerable groups [,]. These disparities may contribute to worse health outcomes, including preventable complications and hospitalizations [,].