PAHO Urges Strengthened Primary Care to Combat Diabetes

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Posted by pallavi on 2024-08-13 13:04:20 |

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On World Diabetes Day, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) called for a substantial enhancement in primary health care services to better manage diabetes. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa emphasized the need for comprehensive care, including early detection, effective management, and access to essential treatments like insulin.

The event, held in Mexico City, highlighted the urgency of addressing diabetes, which affects approximately 62 million people in the Americas, with a significant portion undiagnosed. Diabetes complications contribute to over 380,000 deaths annually in the region. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues by disrupting primary care services, impacting those with diabetes severely.

Dr. Jose Moya of PAHO Mexico underscored the importance of public health policies promoting healthier lifestyles and better access to medications. The Global Diabetes Pact, launched by WHO in 2021, aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one-third by 2030, focusing on equitable care and preventive measures.

PAHO's new initiative, "Better Care for NCDs," seeks to accelerate efforts in primary health care to address diabetes and other non-communicable diseases. This initiative will build on existing programs and include strategies to improve health worker capacity, community engagement, and access to essential medicines. The Strategic Fund will support the procurement of affordable medicines and technologies to enhance diabetes care in the region.

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