By Fidel Rahmati in The Khaama Press Online, November 22, 2023
The Ministry of Public Health in Afghanistan has revealed alarming statistics concerning diabetes, stating that 1,000 individuals succumb to the disease annually, highlighting the severity of this health crisis.
On World Diabetes Day in Kabul, acting Deputy Minister of Public Health Habibullah Akhundzadah expressed deep concern over the escalating diabetes rates, citing that in 2022 alone, a staggering 17,499 people were diagnosed with the condition.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Akhundzadah emphasized the nationwide capacity of health centres to diagnose and treat diabetes, assuring that concerted efforts are underway to enhance public awareness about the disease.
The Deputy Minister’s disclosure underscores the pressing need for proactive measures to curb the rising prevalence of diabetes, urging a comprehensive approach that involves both diagnosis and treatment.
it is worth mentioning that most Afghan patients choose neighbouring countries such as Pakistan and Iran as treatment destinations due to lack of facilities and medical equipment in Afghanistan.
Naeemullah Safi, a representative of the World Health Organization, echoed the concern during the meeting, stating that the WHO collaborates closely with the Ministry of Public Health in the battle against diabetes.
Safi highlighted the multifaceted collaboration between WHO and the Ministry, emphasizing their joint efforts in controlling and providing essential services to counter the diabetes epidemic.
The revelation of over 17,000 new diabetes cases in a single year underscores the critical role of international partnerships, as organizations like WHO actively engage with local health authorities to address the growing health challenges.
The collective commitment of the Ministry of Public Health and international entities like the World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of collaborative strategies to raise awareness, enhance healthcare infrastructure, and effectively combat the escalating diabetes crisis in Afghanistan.
https://www.khaama.com/over-1000-deaths-in-afghanistan-due-to-diabetes-complications-ministry/
