Diabetes Mellitus:

 

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic disorder resulting from insulin deficiency and or insulin resistance. Over 285 million people are currently affected by Diabetes worldwide. (WHO & IDF, 2010). In Kenya, the MOH estimates that over 2 million people have diabetes.  

 

The Diabetes epidemic is fuelled by changes in lifestyle and dietary transition coupled with increasing stress levels. This contributes to type 2 diabetes that comprises 95% of all diabetes.

 

Diabetes is associated with acute and long range complications that result in morbidity (illness/disability) and often premature mortality(death). However the bulk of these can be prevented by optimum control of Diabetes and related disorders. The burden of care rests on the person with Diabetes who has to make multiple daily decisions regarding his care.

 

It is therefore important that the person is equipped with necessary care tools, education, skills and monitoring devices to facilitate the process and ensure that he or she makes informed decisions for optimal outcome.