Journal of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes of South Africa - December 2021 Vol. 26 No. 3

Introduction

IDMPS Wave 7 Africa

Diabetes is a major economic burden and has rapidly increased worldwide. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 90–95% of cases, has increased particularly in the developing world. Early treatment intensification may decrease the morbidity and mortality of diabetes by lowering the risk of related chronic complications. The majority of patients, however, do not achieve glycaemic targets, and consequently suffer from complications secondary to suboptimal glycaemic control. A large number of epidemiological studies or national registers have been analysed at both country and regional levels, particularly in developed countries, in order to assess the quality of care in patients with diabetes, or to determine compliance with national treatment guidelines. There is a paucity of data from the developing world, particularly in Africa, with regard to the quality of care of people with type 2 diabetes. A better understanding of the missing gaps within current diabetes management is therefore required in order to improve the quality of care of these patients.

Correlation between vitamin D serum levels and severity of diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus will be the seventh leading cause of death in 2030, as proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). There are approximately 93 million people with diabetic retinopathy (DR), 17 million with proliferative DR, 21 million with diabetic macular oedema, and 28 million with vision-threatening DR. The overall prevalence of proliferative DR is 6.81% (6.74–6.89) worldwide.

Assessment of diabetes dietary knowledge and its impact on intake of patients in Senwabarwana, Limpopo, South Africa

Dietary diabetes knowledge is a significant contributor to the improvement of eating habits.  Adequate dietary knowledge leads to adherence to a dietary plan, which is viewed as a cornerstone in diabetes treatment, and linked with better diabetes outcomes.   The aim of the study is to assess diabetes dietary knowledge and intake of patients.