Nairobi: The County Government of Nakuru has shifted its focus on early detection, accessible and affordable treatment, and sensitization programs towards improving diabetic patients' care. The devolved unit's administration has indicated that the initiative involves promoting healthy lifestyles and utilizing technology to enhance access to patient care, medication, and education.
According to Kenya News Agency, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Care Services, Ms. Roselyn Mungai, emphasized the importance of preventive services to reduce complications and urged Kenyans to take responsibility for the prevention of diabetes. She encouraged regular screenings for diabetes at all public health facilities and highlighted the County Government's ongoing efforts to raise awareness and improve early detection and management of diabetes, particularly at the community level.
Ms. Mungai remarked on the deployment of Community Health Promoters (CHPs), equipped with glucometers and essential testing supplies, as a significant progress in public education on diabetes. This statement followed her leading the County Health Management Team (CHMT) in receiving essential medical equipment from Medtronic Lab to enhance diabetes care services.
The newly acquired equipment, including two Getein 1160 analyzers, two Slit Lamp 3 units, monofilaments, diabetic foot care tools, peripheral vascular dopplers, and nail clippers, is expected to significantly improve support for diabetes patients by extending the range of diagnostics available. Ms. Mungai pointed out that these tools will also strengthen primary care networks and enhance diabetes management across all 11 Sub-counties.
She underscored the importance of proper handling and maintenance of the equipment to ensure their durability and optimal patient care. Additionally, the Social Health Authority, established under the Social Health Insurance Act, is now operational and managing the Primary Health Care Fund, offering free preventive services, including diabetes screening, at all Level 2 and 3 public health facilities across the county, as well as through CHPs.
Ms. Mungai raised concerns about diabetes being a serious threat to Kenya's health and economic aspirations, with more than 87 percent of Kenyans unaware of their blood sugar status. She estimated that up to two million Kenyans could be living with undetected diabetes or in a pre-diabetic state, emphasizing the need for regular screening and public education.
The initiative is part of Governor Susan Kihika's administration's efforts to improve the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The CECM stated that regular public health campaigns are being conducted to educate residents about diabetes risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of healthy lifestyles. Ms. Mungai assured that diabetes is a manageable condition and that with the right treatment, individuals can live long, productive lives free of complications.
Ms. Mungai also highlighted ongoing investments in constant training programs for healthcare workers to enable early diagnosis and prevent complications. She noted that diabetes requires lifelong management to prevent complications such as kidney failure and stroke, advising people to eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and to strictly adhere to medication.
The National Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases estimated the prevalence of diabetes in Kenya at 3.1 percent in 2019, projected to rise to 4.4 percent by 2035 if no action is taken. In 2015, at least 8,700 diabetes-related deaths were registered in Kenya. Currently, there are about 2.3 million diabetes cases in Kenya, expected to rise to 3.5 million by 2045. Ms. Mungai attributed the rise in diabetes cases to a lack of screening, sedentary lifestyles, and physical inactivity, with many cases diagnosed late, sometimes after complications have already set in.