Malawi: Malawi Battles Hidden Diabetes Crisis Among Children Amid Chronic Supply Shortages
[Nyasa Times] Malawi's Ministry of Health has revealed the alarming true scale of the country's diabetes crisis, disclosing that nearly 79 percent of cases nationwide remain undiagnosed, as officials scramble to expand screening and treatment access -- particularly for children living with the life-threatening condition.
Malawi's Ministry of Health has revealed a staggering scale of the country's diabetes crisis, with nearly 79% of cases remaining undiagnosed. Public Relations Officer Benedicto Mbewe disclosed that the government is taking urgent measures to expand screening and treatment access, particularly for children, who are being diagnosed at a median age of just 10 years old.
Only 16% of children have achieved reasonable blood sugar control, with only one specialized paediatric endocrinologist serving the entire nation. The Ministry of Health attributes the resource gap to inadequate funding, supply chain challenges, and heavy reliance on donor support. Despite the grim situation, progress is being made, with seven new Type 1 diabetes clinics established under the PEN-Plus model, bringing the total to 12.
Health workers have also received specialized training in managing diabetes and its complications, and community outreach efforts are underway to boost awareness and education around the condition.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
