A new study published in the Journal of Diabetes Research highlights global progress and gaps in research on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Around 6,470 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection to map trends, key contributors, and emerging priorities were analyzed using bibliometric analysis.

The analysis reveals a sharp surge in HRQoL research over the past five years (2020–2024), which now accounts for 40% of all publications in the field. More than 29,000 authors across 1,400 journals have contributed, reflecting growing academic and clinical recognition of the psychosocial and functional dimensions of diabetes care.

The United States leads the field with over 1,600 publications and nearly 100,000 citations, followed by China and the United Kingdom. However, while 75% of people with T2DM live in developing regions, very few of these countries are represented among the top contributors of HRQoL research. This phenomenon highlights global disparities in research capacity. Leading institutions include Harvard University, the University of California System, and the University of Copenhagen.

Commonly used HRQoL assessment tools include the SF-36, EQ-5D, and WHOQOL. Research hotspots have shifted from metabolic control and complications to a more holistic approach incorporating mental health, stress, and social functioning.

Looking ahead, digital health technologies such as wearable devices, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence are expected to drive personalized HRQoL monitoring. The study highlights the importance of stronger international collaboration and culturally tailored strategies to improve HRQoL, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the diabetes burden is highest.