“According to recent studies, prevalence of type 1 diabetes in Eastern region is increasing at an alarming rate. It is estimated that about 1 in 100 children in the region have type 1 diabetes, and this number is expected to increase in the coming years. This is a cause for concern, as type 1 diabetes can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those affected, and can also place a heavy burden on the healthcare system. Children with type 1 diabetes require lifelong management, including regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, insulin therapy and healthy lifestyle”
She stated that, generally, there are about 150,000 people in Ghana living with diabetes and a significant proportion of these have type 1 diabetes but “unfortunately, insulin can be expensive and difficult to access in some parts Ghana, which can make it challenging for people with type 1 diabetes to manage their condition. Hence the need for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent complication”.
Nsawam based non-governmental organization, Ark Development organization (ADO) has therefore secured funding from Panorama Global T1D Community Fund to implement a two year community based intervention titled “Diabetes Support Program” with main focus on advocacy , wellbeing and holistic support, financial assistance,and livelihood support for persons with type 1 diabetes in Ayensuano, Nsawam- Adoagyiri and Suhum Municipalities.
Launching the project at Nsawam, the Executive Director of Ark Development Organization (ADO) Emmanuel Kwarfo Mintah, said “research conducted by the organization on Type 1 Diabetes in the selected municipalities and district revealed that due to poverty many patients with type 1 diabetes are unable to access insulin and adhere to dietary advice.
“High cost of medicines, especially at this time of very high inflation and exchange rates, difficulty in accessing treatment services because services are mostly available at urban centres, bad roads and high cost of transportation contribute to the challenges with access to essential services required for T1D patients.”
