Avoiding diabetes-related amputations

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Extract from the article: In Togo, diabetes affects around 5% of the population. However, this figure is only the tip of the iceberg, as many people are unaware that they are suffering from the condition. The socio-economic impact of diabetes in the country is compounded by t

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In Togo, diabetes affects around 5% of the population. However, this figure is only the tip of the iceberg, as many people are unaware that they are suffering from the condition. The socio-economic impact of diabetes in the country is compounded by this lack of awareness.

«Today, diabetes has a real socio-economic impact, and no doctor in Togo completes his consultations a day without seeing a diabetic», confides Damien Ekoué-Kouvahey, Head of the Fédération Togolaise des associations engagées dans la lutte contre les maladies non transmissibles (FETOL-MNT) and of the NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA). This daily reality for health professionals shows the scale of the problem. The consequences of diabetes are often serious, with many patients requiring amputations.

Unfortunately, prostheses, which are essential for improving amputees' quality of life, remain out of reach for most patients because of their high cost. « Every 20 minutes, someone in the world suffers an amputation as a result of diabetes, and in Togo, too, there are many cases of amputation », says Damien Ekoué-Kouvahey.

To alleviate this situation, the NGO VISA is trying to help amputees get their prostheses made. However, the organisation's contribution is insufficient. It is crucial to receive outside help and the support of the authorities to reduce the cost of prostheses and provide donations to vulnerable people.

Healthy lifestyle habits are essential to prevent diabetes.Physical activity and walking are essential to combat the condition. It is also essential to adopt a balanced diet that avoids excess salt, sugar and fat. To identify diabetes, a blood sugar test is required. The normal range is between 0.70 and 1.10 g per millilitre of blood. A person can be classified as diabetic as soon as they reach 1.20 g.

For Dr Ekoué-Kouvahey, the fight against this disease must be a priority to ensure a healthier future for all Togolese. « It is imperative that preventive and curative measures are stepped up, and that access to care and medical equipment is facilitated for people affected by diabetes», he adds.

Diabetes is a major issue in Togo, requiring joint action by the authorities, non-governmental bodies and the international community.To minimise the effects of this disease and optimise the quality of life of those affected, it is crucial to raise awareness, prevent the disease and ensure access to care.

William O.