Challenges for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes in resource-limited countries (DR Congo)
Diabetes prevalence is rising dramatically in limited-resources countries, particularly in DR Congo. An estimated number of 14.2 million adults (aged between 20 and 79 years old) are suffering from diabetes mellitus, which represents a regional prevalence of 2.1–6.7%. In the near future, sub-Saharan Africa is expected to undergo the largest proportional increase in diabetes mellitus, with an estimated number of 41.5 million affected Africans in 2035.
For decades, available resources were allocated in the management of infectious diseases. Despite the increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, little attention has been paid to the correct diagnosis of this disease in developing countries. About 50% of people living with diabetes mellitus in sub-Saharan Africa remain undiagnosed. A poor glycaemic control increases the risk of diabetes complications and is associated with a high mortality rate.
This community talk will give an overview of the challenges encountered in diagnosing and monitoring of diabetes mellitus in sub-Saharan Africa. It will present also the recent progress made in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.
Please note this Community Talk is only in English !