Malawi Health Officials Push Diabetes Prevention as Global Cases Rise
Officials estimate that diabetes affects 2% of Malawi's adult population, with nearly half of those patients also suffering from hypertension.
LILONGWE, Malawi — Malawi's Ministry of Health called for increased public vigilance in diabetes prevention and early detection as the nation marked World Diabetes Day, writes Wendi Mkandawire.
"The Ministry, in collaboration with its partners, is implementing several interventions, including strengthening primary healthcare services for non-communicable diseases," Health Secretary Dr Samson Mndolo said in a statement on Thursday.
Officials estimate that diabetes affects 2% of Malawi's adult population, with nearly half of those patients also suffering from hypertension.
The observance, under the theme "Diabetes and Well-being," aims to connect people with diabetes to healthcare professionals and resources.
Globally, one in ten adults lives with diabetes, according to health officials.
The disease claims approximately 4 million lives annually, with 80% of deaths occurring in low-resource countries.
"We're encouraging everyone to make healthy lifestyle choices," Mndolo said. "This includes regular exercise, proper nutrition, stress management, and avoiding tobacco use."
The ministry has launched community awareness programmes focused on non-communicable diseases to help reduce the burden of diabetes across the country.
Public health facilities throughout Malawi offer diabetes screening and treatment services as part of the government's prevention strategy.