- A new analysis by World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that the lack of awareness of their diabetes status in Africa is worsening the health situation in the continent. Only 46% of people living with diabetes in the African region are aware of their status.
A new analysis by World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that the lack of awareness of their diabetes status in Africa is worsening the health situation in the continent. Only 46% of people living with diabetes in the African region are aware of their status. The undiagnosed diabetes has the potential to increase the mortality rates as per the new analysis.
Lack of adequate testing facilities and equipment, trained health personnel, poor access to health facilities and lack of awareness about diabetes are some of the major factors contributing to the health crisis in Africa. According to WHO, about 24 million adults suffer from diabetes in Africa. By 2045, it is projected to rise by 129% to 55 million.In Africa, premature deaths from diabetes stands at 58%, against the global average of 48%.
Africa must ensure that all those diagnosed with type 1 diabetes have access to affordable insulin, blood glucose self-monitoring and cholesterol-lowering drugs. For diabetes patients, access to affordable treatment, including insulin, is critical. For example, in rural Mozambique, the life expectancy of a child with type 1 diabetes is as low as seven months. According to recent data, the continent recorded a five-fold rise in type 1 diabetes among children and teenagers below 19 years, between 2011 and 2021.
Also read;
https://trendsnafrica.com/tedros-re-elected-as-who-chief/
https://trendsnafrica.com/world-bank-to-contribute-more-to-africas-public-health/
WHO has urged African countries to take measures to ensure that essential medicines, technologies and diagnostics are available and accessible at district hospitals.
