Summary:
- According to Uganda’s Ministry of Health, diabetes is among the leading causes of blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and non-traumatic lower limb amputation in the country.
RUKUNGIRI: As Uganda joined the rest of the world in celebrating World Diabetes Day 2024, Rukungiri District authorities revealed that 6,383 people tested positive for diabetes last year.
The national celebration, held in Kabale District on Thursday under the theme “Diabetes and Well-Being,” highlighted the need for improved access to diabetes care and support.
Speaking to our reporter, Rukungiri District Health Educator Alban Natukunda stressed that these figures represent only patients who sought treatment at health facilities, emphasizing the critical role of early screening. He warned that diabetes, a condition increasing at an alarming global rate, can silently harm key organs, including the heart, nerves, and kidneys.
Natukunda noted that diabetes is preventable and manageable with appropriate knowledge. He advocated for lifestyle changes, regular medication, and consistent health monitoring as vital strategies. He identified common causes of diabetes, including physical inactivity, obesity, high-fat diets, and genetic predisposition.
CUE IN NATUKUNDA……ON DIABETES…….RR//
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Rukungiri Municipality, Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahirwa, encouraged the public to prioritize regular health check-ups, stressing that early detection can help avert severe complications. To support this initiative, Dr. Rutahirwa organized a one-day free diabetes screening at Rujumbura Medicare Services, enabling residents to assess their health status and take proactive steps to manage diabetes.
CUE IN DR RUTAHIRWA…..ON DIABETES…..RR/ENG//
According to Uganda’s Ministry of Health, diabetes is among the leading causes of blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and non-traumatic lower limb amputation in the country. Data from the International Diabetes Federation reveals that in 2021, an estimated 716,000 adults in Uganda were living with diabetes.
