Over 537 million adults around the world are living with diabetes. Tanzania, one of the world’s fastest-growing countries, is experiencing the worst of Africa’s diabetes epidemic, with the World Health Organisation reporting a 12.3% age-adjusted prevalence in Tanzanian adults, the highest in Africa for that category.
In recognition of this critical public health crisis and to mark the United Nations’ World Diabetes Day on November 14th, Dawoodi Bohra volunteers of Project Rise, Saifee Hospital Tanzania, and Dawoodi Bohra Health Affairs collaborated with governmental bodies of the Ilala District Council and the Office of the District Medical Officer to organise a Diabetes-Free Awareness and Prevention Camp in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Millions of people with diabetes face daily challenges in managing their condition in work, school, and at home. Lifestyle plays an important role towards preventing the disease. When diabetes prevention focuses on blood sugar alone, it can be overwhelming. Knowing how to be responsible, resilient, and organised can make a great impact towards improving physical and mental well-being when living with the risk of diabetes.
A Collaborative Effort with Tangible Results
The medical camp focused on raising awareness on the disease and providing resources about preventative actions for all ages. It brought together numerous qualified healthcare professionals who ranged from doctors, nurses, nutritionists, physiotherapists, pharmacists and trained volunteers, providing preventative care at multiple levels.
Over 315 individuals took part in the interactive sessions and workshops throughout the week that focused on educating about the risks associated with diabetes. Free screenings for diabetes and other chronic diseases such as hypertension were offered in addition to counselling on healthy lifestyle changes, nutrition, exercise and stress management.
Key Findings and Outcomes:
- Participant Demographics: 80% male and 20% female participants ranging in age from 15-91
- Screening Results:
- 25% exhibited abnormal blood sugar levels (62 out of 315), indicating the need for further medical attention.
- 30% had dietary concerns requiring follow-up care (73 out of 315).
Participants expressed gratitude for the services, many committing to adopting healthier lifestyles. To ensure ongoing care, everyone received supplementary resources and connections to health networks.
Shabniz Chatur, an organiser, said:
“This camp aimed to combat the growing prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Tanzania. Our mission was to raise awareness, provide free screening, consultations, and medications, and educate participants on managing and preventing diabetes.
“Witnessing the community come together was incredibly gratifying. Participants left with not just better health insights, but also a renewed sense of hope.
“Serving the community is not just our duty but a deeply fulfilling experience, and we look forward to continuing such impactful initiatives in the future.”
A Model for the Future
The camp is one step to demonstrate that though diabetes is a major public health crisis and prevalent throughout the world, it can be prevented. The aim of this camp was to offer replicable models and resources at both local and governmental levels to make healthcare more accessible for people facing the risk of diabetes across all of East Africa.