Type 1 diabetes patients receive care boost

Mbabane – Children and young adults living with Type 1 diabetes have received new support from the Ministry of Health following the distribution of diabetes management equipment under the Non Communicable Diseases Programme.

The Ministry, working through its NCD Programme, on Wednesday distributed 276 diabetes management packs to clients aged up to 26 years. The equipment includes glucometer machines, needles and test strips, aimed at helping patients monitor and manage their condition at home.

The equipment, valued at E500 000, was donated by international partner Life for a Child and is expected to benefit about 250 clients across the country. The distribution took place in Mbabane and forms part of government efforts to improve self care among people living with diabetes.

According to the Ministry, beneficiaries have undergone training through the NCD Programme to enable them to monitor their blood sugar levels and manage the condition independently. The programme also oversees the ongoing distribution of diabetes related commodities to health facilities.

In addition to the medical equipment, the beneficiaries received stationery packs supported by the Clinton Health Access Initiative. The stationery will be used by patients to keep daily records of their glucose levels, which will be presented during routine visits to health facilities.

The Ministry said further assistance from Life for a Child includes injectable insulin for managing Type 1 diabetes, as well as fridges used when transporting insulin to regional health facilities where patients collect their medication. This additional support is valued at approximately E2.5 million.

Vusi Shabangu of the NCD Program said: “The Ministry of Health doing everything to assist children and other people living with diabetes, including providing injectable insulin, injections and self test kits that they use to monitor their diabetes levels, particularly those who use injectable insulin.”