Journal of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes of South Africa - December 2020 Vol. 25 No. 3

Introduction

Perceptual systems of the self-management of students living with diabetes mellitus: an IQA approach

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease defined by elevated blood glucose levels over a long period of time. One in 10 people are living with DM.

Perspectives of healthcare workers on factors influencing diabetes management and diabetic foot problems in Zimbabwe

Diabetic foot (DF) is the most debilitating diabetes-related complication, potentially resulting in lower limb amputations if left untreated. The burden of diabetes is highest in developed countries (10.4%) compared with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) (4–9%), yet the burden of diabetes-related complications such as DF is much higher in LMICs. This disproportionately high burden of diabetes related complications could be attributed to poor glycaemic control among people living with diabetes in low-resourced countries. DF exacts significant morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where the estimated burden is > 10%.

Pilot study involving the use of point-of-care glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) testing for screening and monitoring of diabetes mellitus in the public healthcare sector in KwaZulu-Natal

Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains one of the leading causes of death globally among non-communicable diseases. Strategies to improve glycaemic control are highly sought after, especially in developing countries where the combination of communicable and non-communicable diseases is wreaking havoc on both patients’ health and the economy of these countries. This interaction has been highlighted in the current COVID-19 pandemic where it has been shown that DM as a co-morbidity is a major risk factor for both developing complications and increased overall patient mortality. 

Defaulters. Are they worse off? Analysing reasons for this phenomenon amongst patients with diabetes with and without HIV infection

The diabetes mellitus (DM) pandemic continues to gather momentum globally. Ideal control remains elusive, especially in developing countries already overburdened by the combinatorial effects of infectious and non-infectious diseases. It is common knowledge that we need to create innovative strategies to improve diabetes control. One suggestion proposed by Van Olmen et al. in their literature review is that countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) require rapid improvements in their approach to both communicable and non-communicable diseases through a concerted public health approach.