Story By: Ishmael Barfi
In a significant move to address the growing diabetes crisis, the National Diabetes Association of Ghana has announced the distribution of 300 boxes of the diabetes medication JANUVIA, free of charge, to adult patients with type 2 diabetes across the nation.
This initiative, launched in conjunction with the 2024 World Diabetes Day, aims to enhance access to essential diabetes management resources and raise awareness about the increasing prevalence of diabetes in Ghana.
JANUVIA, developed by Merck & Co., Inc., is a once-daily oral medication that helps lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.
It uniquely adjusts to the body’s needs, lowering blood sugar when it is too high and reducing its effect when levels are low. This medication, when combined with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, offers a comprehensive approach to diabetes care.
During a press conference, Mrs. Elizabeth Esi Denyoh, Chairperson of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Africa and President of the National Diabetes Association Ghana, highlighted the alarming rise in diabetes cases both in Ghana and globally.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified diabetes as a major global health threat, with an estimated 425 million people affected worldwide. In sub-Saharan Africa, diabetes cases are projected to double by 2025.
“Diabetes is one of the most serious health threats we face today,” Mrs. Denyoh stated emphasizing the risks associated with unmanaged diabetes, including blindness, kidney failure, and cardiovascular disease.
To her, “Access to affordable and effective medication is critical, and we are grateful to be able to offer JANUVIA for free to support Ghanaians with type 2 diabetes.”
The initiative underscores the vital role of community healthcare providers in managing diabetes. With most diabetes patients in Ghana primarily treated by general physicians, the Association’s outreach includes partnerships to deliver diabetes education and clinical support for healthcare workers nationwide.
The Association is also advocating for government subsidies for diabetic medications and supplies, noting that current support for diabetes care remains insufficient.
Mrs. Denyoh called on the Ghanaian government to prioritize diabetes management, stressing the economic and public health benefits of early intervention and prevention.
She therefore outlined plans to train healthcare workers on diabetes management, promote exercise in schools, and integrate healthy food options, such as fruits, into the school feeding program.
“Education and access to medication are the strongest tools we have against this disease,” Mrs. Denyoh said. The Association aims to make diabetes management resources accessible nationwide through initiatives like the free distribution of JANUVIA and ongoing educational campaigns in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
The distribution of JANUVIA is seen as a crucial step in raising awareness and providing tangible support for diabetes management in Ghana, particularly for underserved communities.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
