South Africa: Diabetes | the Hidden Cost Behind Effectively Managing Diabetes

Patricia Nhlapo, a 53-year-old woman from Meriting informal settlement in Lenasia South, South Africa, has gone more than four months without her diabetes and other chronic medication due to financial constraints. Living alone with seven dependents, Nhlapo relies on her eldest daughter for support. She must choose between purchasing food and obtaining treatment.

Nhlapo was diagnosed with diabetes in 2024 and requires medication for hypertension, heart, kidney issues, and blood clots. Public transport makes it difficult for her to reach the hospital regularly. She also faces challenges in managing her diet due to high costs. Diabetes specialist and founder of PNJ Sunshine Healthcare, Pamela Jwili, warns that prolonged uncontrolled blood glucose can lead to severe complications.

She advises patients to seek alternative collection points for chronic medicine, such as the Central Chronic Medicine Dispensing and Distribution programme. Despite healthcare workers' emphasis on healthy eating, many patients struggle to afford nutritious foods. 43-year-old Mosele Mokanyane from Palm Springs, who supports her daughter and niece while contributing to another household, shares similar struggles.

Diabetes has impacted her confidence and emotional well-being. Healthcare workers should provide realistic nutritional guidance based on patients' financial situations and offer support services to address mental health concerns related to diabetes.