Diabetes prevalence four times higher in Saint-Louis, Senegal

The situation of diabetes in Saint-Louis, Senegal, is causing concern among health professionals and patient associations. According to reports, the region has an estimated 16% prevalence of diabetes, which is four times higher than the national average of 4%. This was highlighted on the occasion of World Diabetes Day, celebrated on November 14. The consequences of this high prevalence are particularly severe for those affected.

The impact of diabetes on patients in Saint-Louis is significant, with many facing loss of income due to complications such as loss of vision or amputation of a limb. Amadou Doudou DIOP, president of the Saint-Louis Diabetics Association, notes that the disease primarily affects people in the agriculture, fishing, and commerce sectors. Caroline Garrick NGOUAMBA, vice-president of the association, reports that amputations are performed on diabetic patients every three days.

Several factors contribute to the high prevalence of diabetes in Saint-Louis, including dietary habits, excessive sugar and fat consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle. Health professionals also warn about the risks of depigmentation using corticosteroids, which can disrupt blood glucose regulation. Furthermore, Amadou Diop DIA, an internist, cautions against traditional remedies proposed by some practitioners, emphasizing that there is no cure for type 1 and 2 diabetes.

The cost of managing diabetes is a significant challenge for patients and their families. Baye Oumar GUEYE, president of the Senegalese Association for Diabetics Support, states that 87% of patients come from vulnerable families. Although public subsidies for insulin have increased, medical follow-up and treatment remain a heavy burden for households.

In Saint-Louis, patient associations criticize the lack of diabetes care in the Universal Health Coverage (CSU) system. They demand its effective integration into this mechanism and the construction of a specialized center in the region, with a day hospitalization unit to treat hyperglycemia crises. The associations stress the need for improved healthcare infrastructure to address the growing diabetes problem.

The situation in Saint-Louis highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the diabetes epidemic. Health professionals and patient associations are calling for increased awareness, improved access to healthcare, and more effective management of the disease. The high prevalence of diabetes in the region underscores the importance of addressing the social and economic determinants of health.

The Saint-Louis region requires urgent attention to address the growing burden of diabetes. With the support of healthcare professionals, patient associations, and government agencies, it is possible to mitigate the impact of this disease and improve the lives of those affected. Key initiatives, such as integrating diabetes care into the CSU system and constructing a specialized center, are crucial steps towards addressing the diabetes epidemic in Saint-Louis.

Key points

• The Saint-Louis region in Senegal reports a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes (16%) compared to the national average (4%).
• The high prevalence of diabetes in Saint-Louis has severe consequences for patients, including loss of income and limited access to healthcare.
• Patient associations are calling for improved healthcare infrastructure, including the integration of diabetes care into the Universal Health Coverage system and the construction of a specialized center.