What is the prevalence of diabetes in Tamil Nadu?

The prevalence of diabetes in Tamil Nadu is 13%, which is higher than the national average of 12%.

How is the Tamil Nadu government addressing the diabetes epidemic?

The Tamil Nadu government is expanding the number of specialized type 1 diabetes care centers from 7 to 10 within the next 2 months, and plans to eventually set up these centers in all 36 government medical colleges in the state.

What is the "Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam" scheme?

The "Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam" scheme is a government healthcare initiative in Tamil Nadu that has identified and treated over 54 million people with diabetes and hypertension.

Home / Health / Tamil Nadu Expands Specialized Diabetes Care for Children

Tamil Nadu Expands Specialized Diabetes Care for Children

14 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Diabetes prevalence 13% in Tamil Nadu, higher than national 12%
Tamil Nadu to add 3 new specialized type 1 diabetes care centers
Over 54 million diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension under government scheme

Tamil Nadu Expands Specialized Diabetes Care for Children

As of November 2025, the Tamil Nadu government is taking significant steps to address the rising prevalence of diabetes in the state. According to the Health Minister, the diabetes prevalence in Tamil Nadu currently stands at 13%, higher than the national average of 12%.

To improve specialized care for diabetes patients, particularly children with type 1 diabetes, the state plans to scale up the number of dedicated care centers in the government sector. Currently, there are 7 such centers functional at various medical college hospitals. Within the next 2 months, 3 additional centers will be set up at government medical colleges in Tiruvarur, Namakkal, and Chidambaram. The goal is to eventually expand these centers to all 36 government medical colleges across Tamil Nadu.