Côte d'Ivoire celebrated the 29th national World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2026, at the Institut national de santé publique (INSP) in Adjamé. The country's health authorities used the occasion to urge the population to be more vigilant about the chronic disease. With free screening, awareness campaigns, and prevention advice, the Ministry of Health aims to encourage early diagnosis and limit severe complications.
The theme of this year's celebration, "Agir tôt contre le diabète" ("Act early against diabetes"), emphasizes the importance of early detection. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Programme national de lutte contre les maladies métaboliques et de prévention des maladies non transmissibles (PNLMM/PMNT), organized various activities, including free diabetes, hypertension, and obesity screenings. A group fitness session and exhibition stands were also part of the event.
Health experts stress that diabetes can progress silently for years without noticeable symptoms. The representative of NGOs and associations fighting against diabetes warned about the dangers of late diagnosis, which can lead to severe complications such as vision loss, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and amputations. These complications result in significant healthcare expenses for patients and their families.
Dr. Adoueni Katché Valery, director coordinator of PNLMM/PMNT, highlighted the importance of systematic screening. He recommended regular blood glucose and blood pressure monitoring, balanced eating, and physical activity to prevent and manage diabetes. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and better control of the disease's progression.
According to Dr. Tia Mamadou, director general adjoint of the Santé, the international community faces a significant health challenge. Citing data from the Atlas du diabète, he stated that over 599 million people worldwide live with diabetes, with projections suggesting this number could reach 853 million by 2050. He emphasized that diabetes is a major public health issue, as well as an economic and social challenge for nations.
In Côte d'Ivoire, the fight against diabetes has been ongoing since 1997, with efforts focused on strengthening prevention, improving screening, and deploying diabetes and hypertension prevention units nationwide. Despite these initiatives, authorities acknowledge the need for continued mobilization to bring prevention services closer to the population and raise awareness about risk factors.
The authorities are calling on citizens to take action against diabetes. Dr. Tia Mamadou urged everyone to get involved in the fight against the disease, emphasizing that it cannot be won without the public's participation. By acting early and taking preventive measures, Côte d'Ivoire aims to reduce the risks associated with diabetes and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Key points
- Early screening and prevention are crucial in combating diabetes complications.
- Côte d'Ivoire has been fighting diabetes since 1997, with a focus on prevention, screening, and public awareness.
- The country aims to reduce the risks associated with diabetes and improve the quality of life for those affected through continued mobilization and public participation.
