"These findings are really very worrying," said Professor Massi-Benedetti , VP of the IDF. "The OPTIMIZE Survey provides us with a real insight into the attitudes of people with diabetes about their condition, and the findings indicate that, despite the availability of insulin, a natural and effective way to control blood sugar, levels of control are sub-optimal at a global level. “It is vital that we address why people are not getting to target levels, in order to reduce the growing incidence of the devastating complications associated with diabetes."

An estimated 175m people suffer from type-2 diabetes around the world, of which 19m live in the EU. The EU figure is projected to increase to 26 million by 2030, which could have a dramatic effect on health care costs.

The survey was designed in part to give diabetes sufferers a chance to express their views of available ways to managing the disease.

Although insulin remains the most effective course of action, it appears that many sufferers are put off using it because of the necessity for injections.

Of the respondents currently using oral pills and/or diet and exercise, almost half said that they would avoid insulin even if it was recommended by a physician, and a further 13 percent said they would be apprehensive.

The results of the OPTIMIZE survey were discussed by leaders in the diabetes field from 16 countries at a meeting in London in March. Their conclusions will be presented at a major diabetes congress later this year.