Diabetic patients have received an earnest call to diligently follow the guidance of healthcare professionals when it comes to prescribed medications and lifestyle management for both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.
The plea was made during a Diabetes Support Program organized by the Ark Development Organization in collaboration with Panorama Global in Suhum, Eastern Region, Ghana.
The initiative is part of the Panorama Global T1D Community Funded two-year project on Type-1 diabetes being implemented in Suhum, Nsawam and Ayensuano districts.
Dr. Abigail Doduwah Sackey, the Eastern Regional Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Coordinator, expressed concerns about the reckless attitudes of some diabetic patients, including non-compliance with doctor’s prescriptions, which are gradually exacerbating the diabetes mortality rate in the Eastern region. She cited data from the Ghana Health Service, revealing that 43% of mortalities in Ghana are attributed to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), with diabetes being one of them.
Dr. Abigail Doduwah Sackey explained the distinction between Type 1 (Insulin-dependent) and Type 2 (Insulin non-dependent) diabetes and stressed the importance of proper medication adherence. She emphasized that diabetes management is a lifelong commitment and should not be halted once a medication course is completed.
Furthermore, she cautioned against combining orthodox medication with herbal remedies simultaneously, as it could complicate the patient’s condition and lead to unforeseen side effects. Dr. Sackey advised individuals who believe in herbal treatments to seek certified practitioners for their herbal remedies.
In addition to medication adherence, Dr. Abigail Doduwah Sackey recommended that diabetic and hypertensive patients reduce or avoid processed foods due to their high salt and sugar content, which can exacerbate these conditions.
Emmanuel Kwafo Minta, Executive Director of the Ark Development Organization, disclosed that the organization, in partnership with Panorama Global, launched the Diabetes Support Program to provide much-needed support to diabetic patients. The treatment and management of diabetes can be expensive, and it is vital to ensure that it is not solely reliant on government resources.
Through the Diabetes Support Program, 4,386 individuals have been screened and provided with financial assistance in approximately three districts in the Eastern region. The program aims to raise awareness about Type 1 diabetes and offers support to those in need. It also focuses on livelihood empowerment, skill development, and financial assistance to help patients manage the disease effectively on their own, as managing Type 1 diabetes can be challenging.
Dr. Fredrick Kwame Ofosu, Suhum Municipal Director of Health, highlighted the significant role Ark Development Organization plays in providing financial support and logistics to manage diabetic patients within the municipality. This collaborative effort with the Ghana Health Service is ensuring that patients receive appropriate care and support for their conditions.
The initiative not only emphasizes the importance of proper medication adherence and lifestyle management but also showcases the vital role that NGOs and community-based programs play in supporting individuals with chronic illnesses like diabetes, ultimately improving their quality of life and reducing mortality rates.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
