The Ministry of Health and Social Protection in Morocco has initiated a three-week campaign aimed at identifying individuals with high-risk factors for diabetes. This comprehensive effort spans various primary healthcare institutions and includes programs to raise awareness about diabetes and its complications.
The campaign, focused on early detection and diagnosis of diabetes, seeks to prevent serious and costly complications and premature deaths. The Ministry underscores the ongoing concern about the epidemiological situation of diabetes in Morocco, with over 25,000 children and more than 2.7 million adults affected. Shockingly, 50% of these cases remain undiagnosed, and over 2.2 million individuals are in the pre-diabetes stage.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Fatiha Essakal, President of the Rahab Association for Diabetic Children, lamented the challenges faced by children with Type 1 diabetes, emphasizing the financial burden of insulin pens. The Ministry of Health is responsible for over 1.2 million diabetes patients in primary healthcare institutions.
Essakal called for increased support for diabetic children, suggesting a 30% financial assistance program. She also stressed the need for intensified awareness campaigns and scientific lectures on the subject. The existing gaps in this area are currently filled by civil society organizations and online awareness programs.
According to Essakal, the Rahab Association for Diabetic Children has supported 189 children aged from one month to 18 years, providing both medical supplies and psychological support. Each new child receives psychological support for six months, in addition to educating mothers on insulin usage.
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