Diabetes & Weight Management
- Over 12.7% of South Africans live with diabetes, which is about 7.9 million people.
- Most people (90-95%) suffer from type 2 diabetes, which is known to be related to life-style.
- Diabetes and obesity (diabesity) have been shown to coexist in many instances.
- A 5-10% reduction in weight has been shown to improve the control of blood sugar levels in diabetics.
- Diabetes is ranked the 10th cause of death worldwide.
- Poorly controlled diabetes and its comorbidities like high blood pressure and abnormal blood lipids can lead to stroke, heart-attack, heart failure, kidney failure, blindness, and leg amputations.
- Early diagnosis through screening makes it possible for clinicians to intervene early and reduce the incidence of these complications.
- Effective and evidence-based management, focused on behavioral/ life-style change and compliance to medication, will also reduce the incidence of the complications.
The center will be:
1. Patient-centered: every diabetic patient has unique personal, social, economic and educational factors, which will be carefully considered when implementing an intervention strategy.
2. The center will focus on screening, early detection, and early intervention.
3. All newly diagnosed and poorly controlled patients will be enrolled in a diabetes education and self-management program in order for them to understand and be better able to manage the condition.
4. The intervention will be delivered by a team of a diabetologist, dietician, a physical therapist, a diabetes nurse, and a coordinator of care.
5. The center will offer the best available technology for our patients to enjoy the fullness of life.
6. The center will also implement the best possible communication methods to stay in touch with each and every one of our patients.