On World Diabetes Day, 14th November, Handicap International is highlighting the disabling effects of this disease, which is rapidly growing in prevalence.
© Pauline Toutenu / Handicap International
Contrary to popular belief, diabetes is not a "rich man's" disease. The number of diabetics in developing countries has risen to worrying levels. According to the WHO, 366 million people will be affected by diabetes by 2030. The prevalence of diabetes is set to increase much faster in developing countries than in industrialised countries (170% over the next 30 years, compared with 42%).
Diabetes is a disabling disease and causes impairments. It can have serious and even fatal consequences if left untreated. However, health systems in developing countries are poorly prepared to case-manage people with diabetes.
That’s why Handicap International’s top priority is to build the capacities of health systems in the Philippines and East Africa. The organisation trains and supports local health operators to screen for the disease and case-manage diabetics. It also performs awareness-raising actions to prevent impairments caused by the disease.
Diabetes is the second leading cause of amputations in the world. Handicap International therefore offers orthopaedic-fitting solutions (prostheses and orthoses) and rehabilitation sessions for amputees.
In 2010, Handicap International’s diabetes projects concerned over one million people in the Philippines, East Africa and Nicaragua.
- 1.1 million people were made aware of diabetes;
- 18,500 people with diabetes directly benefited from the organisation’s activities and those of its partners;
- 1,153 professionals received training.
