Diabète au Sénégal : Comment améliorer la prise en charge des patients ?

Diabetes is a reality that increasingly affects Senegalese people, impacting not only the patients but also their families and communities. With over 400,000 individuals affected, it is crucial to inform oneself and understand this disease to manage it better together. In this article, we will explore the challenges associated with diabetes care in Senegal, but most importantly, we will discover accessible solutions and inspiring initiatives that can improve the quality of life for diabetic patients struggling to find treatment options.

Diabetes Figures Worldwide

Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by an abnormal increase in blood sugar levels, primarily due to a dysfunction of insulin, a key hormone produced by the pancreas.

Two types of diabetes predominate: type 1 diabetes, often diagnosed in the young and related to a complete absence of insulin production, and type 2 diabetes, which mainly affects adults and results from the cells’ resistance to insulin, often exacerbated by unhealthy lifestyle habits.

Diabetes has been classified as one of the main non-communicable diseases by the WHO alongside cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases.

Today, according to the International Diabetes Federation, it is estimated that 537 million adults aged 20 to 79 suffer from diabetes, representing nearly 10.5% of the global population in this age group.

However, what is most concerning is that these figures are not expected to decrease, as the IDF estimates that by 2030, the cases could rise to 640 million people.

But why is this disease a particular case of concern in Senegal? Overview of Diabetes Cases in Senegal

Senegal is no exception to this rise in diabetes, which is also evolving in the country.

Indeed, the disease affects more than 400,000 people. According to the WHO, which conducted a nationwide study, there is a prevalence of 3.4% among individuals aged 18 to 69 and 7.9% among those over 45 years old.

But what is most alarming? Today, only 60,000 diabetic patients throughout Senegal are being followed for treatment.

A surge in cases mainly located in Saint-Louis

Diabetes, often associated with other vascular risk factors, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and its expansion is taking alarming proportions, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where documentation is insufficient.

A study conducted in Saint-Louis, Senegal, revealed that the prevalence of diabetes in this region is 10.4%, with a majority of cases already known (while, as we have seen, the national rate is 3.4%).

Alarmingly, only one-third of diabetics were able to control their disease according to international standards.

The survey also highlighted other significant risk factors, such as dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, and sedentary lifestyles, which affect a significant portion of the population (64%).

Nearly 88% of diabetic patients had at least one comorbidity, and more than half of the subjects had three or more risk factors.

But what is interesting to note is that women are more targeted than men for this type of disease. In Senegal, 22.1% of adults are overweight, including 30.3% of women.

This high prevalence among women can be partly attributed to their tendency to be less physically active. Indeed, they often assume responsibility for childcare and household maintenance, which significantly reduces their opportunities for exercise (it should not be forgotten that 38.3% of Senegalese women are unemployed).

Diet, another cause of Diabetes in Senegal

Just as the factors mentioned earlier, diet plays a central role in the increase of diabetes cases in Senegal.

Traditional dietary habits, often high in fats and carbohydrates, have become a real public health issue.

Many typical dishes are cooked with excessive amounts of oil, contributing to an overconsumption of fats that can lead to metabolic issues.

Bouillon cubes, commonly used to enhance the flavor of dishes like Thiéboudiène, a typical Senegalese dish, also add considerable amounts of sodium, which can exacerbate the risks of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension.

Rice, a staple food in many Senegalese households, has a high glycemic index, meaning it causes a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This frequent consumption of rice, often accompanied by fatty sauces and meats, contributes to an alarming nutritional imbalance.

Additionally, sugary drinks like café touba and attaya tea, often prepared with large amounts of sugar, are ubiquitous in the local culture. Their regular consumption, without regard for sugar intake, raises concerns about their impact on health, particularly for those at risk of diabetes.

These dietary habits, coupled with an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, paint a worrying picture of public health in Senegal.

Managing Diabetes in Senegal: The Challenges Faced

Managing Diabetes in Senegal

In Senegal, barely one in ten diabetics is diagnosed and undergoing treatment. This alarming statistic highlights a major issue: many Senegalese choose to conceal their illness.

The reality is that diabetes management capacities in the country are grossly inadequate.

Infrastructure, equipment, and medical personnel are severely lacking resources, making patient monitoring increasingly difficult.

As a result, follow-up consultations, which should occur every two to three months according to guidelines, are reduced to just once a year—a period far too long to meet the real needs of patients.

The emergence of COVID-19 has exacerbated this situation. According to the WHO, diabetes and hypertension are among the comorbidities most frequently associated with deaths in patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

The pandemic has forced many facilities to pivot towards treating the virus, relegating diabetic care to the background. Indeed, more than half of the beds initially designated for diabetic patients have been reassigned to COVID-19 patients.

Thus, regular monitoring of chronic complications related to diabetes has been largely compromised, with priorities reshaped by the health emergency.

The situation underscores an urgent need for improvement in diabetes management in Senegal, a challenge that cannot be ignored in the current context.

Actions Implemented

To address these challenges, innovative solutions were put in place well before the COVID-19 health crisis.

Senegal distinguished itself as the first Francophone African country to adopt the global BeHealthy BeMobile program, aimed at improving diabetes management.

The mDiabetes project, which uses mobile phones to disseminate diabetes prevention messages, illustrates this initiative.

Launched in 2014, the mDiabetes platform has already been used to send millions of awareness messages during the Ebola outbreak and was reactivated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results from this program show a significant improvement in glycemic control among users.

Additionally, other telemedicine initiatives have emerged, offering remote consultations for some patients since the beginning of the pandemic.

Devices such as tele-examination for diabetic retinopathy and online training for healthcare professionals are also underway, demonstrating a continued commitment to better management of chronic diseases.

Of course, this is still minimal compared to the extent that diabetes has impacted the country.

The Financial Barrier faced by many Senegalese

While most organizations recognize obstacles to diabetes care in the country, it is important not to forget that treatment costs still impact many Senegalese.

A significant advance has been noted, however. Before 2021, a Senegalese diabetic had to spend close to one million Senegalese francs (approximately 1,650 dollars) each year for care.

This is a substantial burden for a population whose average salary ranges between 100,000 and 150,000 Senegalese francs (about 165 dollars).

Since 2021, significant initiatives have been implemented to improve diabetes care in Senegal.

The government announced an increase in the subsidy for insulin, from a subsidy of 300 million in 2004 to 500 million in 2021, enabling many diabetics to receive care at the same price in both private and public institutions.

These efforts aim to make care more accessible and improve the quality of life for patients. However, financial challenges persist, exacerbating health inequalities.

In regions like Kaolack, the opening of treatment units has contributed to better patient care, but the high cost of medications remains a major barrier.

Many diabetics cannot afford the necessary treatments, and these costs are not covered by health mutuals, leaving a significant portion of the population vulnerable to this chronic disease.

In Saint-Louis, the situation is alarming, with concerning figures regarding diabetes-related amputations, highlighting the urgency of establishing adequate care units. Calls to action from diabetic associations are multiplying, urging authorities to respond to the critical needs of patients.

In the south, in Ziguinchor, the number of diabetes cases has significantly increased since 2019. Patients face a lack of medical personnel and expensive medications, further complicating access to care.

The absence of comprehensive care, including special attention to the elderly suffering from multiple diseases, underscores the gaps in the health system.

Despite government efforts to subsidize care and improve access to quality treatments, many Senegalese, particularly those from the most vulnerable strata, continue to face financial difficulties that hinder their access to healthcare.

Remittances for Medical Care in Senegal: Where Do We Stand?

Les envois de fonds pour des soins médicaux au Sénégal, où en est-on ?

Senegal has made significant strides in financial inclusion, largely thanks to the rise of mobile telephony and digital financial services. So how to send or receive money in Senegal ?

These innovations have provided Senegalese with money transfer options that go well beyond traditional banking channels. Mobile wallets, in particular, have transformed the financial landscape, making transactions more accessible and secure, even for those without a bank account.

Traditional banks remain a reliable option for sending and receiving funds. They offer considerable security due to their strict regulation. However, high transfer costs and processing times can be problematic, especially in emergencies, such as immediate health needs.

Moreover, the requirement to have a bank account and comprehensive documentation can be a barrier for many Senegalese.

On the other hand, online services and money transfer apps like Wise, WorldRemit, or PayPal offer practical and often less expensive alternatives.

These platforms allow for quick and simple sending, but they require the recipient to also have an account on the same app, which can be limiting.

Furthermore, their operation is not specifically tailored to healthcare needs, leaving donors uncertain about how the funds sent are used. Diabetes in Senegal: How Can We Envision a Medical Solution?

Today, it is vital to find solutions that accelerate the implementation of diabetes treatments and the accompanying financial accessibility.

Despite the various existing means, there remains an urgent need for money transfer solutions that not only ensure access to care but also guarantee transparency and traceability in the use of funds.

How to Send Care to Your Loved Ones?

In a world where distance can often seem an insurmountable obstacle, KimboCare emerges as an innovative solution for immigrants concerned about the health of their loved ones back in Senegal.

Imagine being able to guarantee your family access to quality healthcare, without the hassle of traditional money transfers that often leave room for uncertainty.

With KimboCare, you have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those you love.

The KimboCare platform allows you to purchase prepaid health credits, designated for specific medical services.

With just a few clicks, you can designate your loved ones as beneficiaries and ensure their immediate access to quality care.

Each credit you provide is used directly to cover their medical needs, thus eliminating any ambiguity about the use of your funds. You have the peace of mind knowing that your financial support is allocated to care that truly matters.

By partnering with rigorously selected medical partners across Africa, the platform ensures that your loved ones receive the best of care, without waiting times or hidden fees.

As soon as you make a transfer, your loved ones receive a notification by SMS or phone call, informing them of the care providers to contact, thus ensuring smooth and rapid access to the necessary services.

By choosing KimboCare, you’re not just buying health credits; you’re investing in the lives of your loved ones and, specifically, in diabetes treatment.

How to receive Care while living in Senegal?

Receiving quality medical care for diabetes in Senegal may seem challenging, but with KimboCare, a new era of possibilities opens up to you.

Imagine having direct access to tailored healthcare services, without the usual obstacles.

Thanks to KimboCare, you can benefit from targeted medical services while being surrounded by a support network to help manage your health.

It’s essential to talk about your health and diabetes. Don’t wait for complications to arise before taking action.

Education about the disease and raising awareness are key elements for better diabetes management.

Get informed, discuss with your family and friends, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences. This collective mobilization can not only improve your quality of life but also that of your loved ones.

By speaking about your needs, you also encourage those around you to take their health seriously. Sharing information about diabetes and its treatments can encourage others to get diagnosed, which is crucial to avoid serious complications from this silent killer.

Together, you can build an informed and proactive community, capable of facing this disease.

FAQ

1. What is the prevalence of diabetes in Senegal?

    The prevalence of diabetes in Senegal is concerning, affecting over 400,000 people. According to the WHO, the prevalence is 3.4% among individuals aged 18 to 69 and rises to 7.9% among those over 45.

    2. What are the main causes of diabetes in Senegal?

    The primary causes of diabetes in Senegal include unhealthy dietary habits, increasing sedentary lifestyles, and socio-economic factors. Diets high in fats and carbohydrates, along with a lack of physical activity, contribute to the rise in diabetes cases.

    3. How does the healthcare system in Senegal manage diabetic patients?

      The management of diabetic patients in Senegal faces numerous challenges, including a lack of infrastructure, medical personnel, and affordable medications. Although there are ongoing initiatives, such as the opening of treatment units, many patients lack access to regular care.

      4. What solutions are available to help diabetic patients in Senegal?

        Initiatives such as the mDiabète program, which uses mobile technology to raise awareness and provide information about diabetes, have been implemented. Additionally, KimboCare offers prepaid health credits to ensure quick and effective access to medical care.

        5. How can I help my loved ones receive medical care for diabetes?

          You can assist your loved ones by using platforms like KimboCare to send health credits, allowing them direct access to quality medical care. It is also important to provide emotional support and encourage them to attend their medical appointments and follow their treatments.