Diabetes Uganda (DU) is a Health charity formed with the aim of educating the public about diabetes and its management in Uganda. This was in response to the alarm raised by various international and local organizations about the increase in the number of people diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes Uganda is an affiliate of Namabiro Foundation and a member of the Global Walk against Diabetes (GWD). H
aving people to support you or making new connections with others living with diabetes is a great way to help you get uplifted and motivated. While there is no known cure for diabetes, that doesn’t mean the diagnosis is hopeless. This November DU shall convene panelists from the Medical profession, Bloggers and the diabetes community in Uganda to an honest and frank discussion on diabetes and its management. This will be together with MBN clinical laboratories, Uganda Diabetes Association and friends. Lack of insulin remains the most common cause of death especially in children with diabetes and the life expectancy of a child who has just developed diabetes with no access to insulin is less than one year. Many die undiagnosed, others through lack of insulin or expert care. In most countries where expert care is available, resources are scarce moreover the burden of diabetes is on the increase in developing economies like Uganda. The fight against diabetes in young people living with the condition has been hampered by lack of prompt and correct information, prohibitive costs of insulin in private pharmaceuticals and inconsistent supply in public hospitals where insulin should be more affordable. The biggest challenge is the attitudes of people towards diabetes. It’s a lifetime expense and a lifetime of using resources and looking after your body. It is through proper diet, good medication and daily exercise that we can win diabetes over. Through this initiative (Forum/Walk) we shall be able address stigma, awareness and avail correct information together with access to quality medical care, all at one event. Proceeds from this event shall go towards creating awareness plus the purchase and distribution of free insulin to economically disadvantaged diabetics below 18 years. At Diabetes Uganda we believe we are in this together.
