Diabetes prevalence in Burkina Faso hits 7.6% as public health challenge grows

The government of Burkina Faso has revealed that the national prevalence of diabetes has reached 7.6% in 2021, a significant increase from 4.9% in 2013.

The announcement was made on Thursday, in commemoration of World Diabetes Day.

Speaking at the event, Robert Kargougou, the country’s Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, highlighted the concerning rise in both diabetes and prediabetes rates across the population.

Notably, 16.8% of the surveyed population were found to have abnormal blood sugar levels, with men experiencing a higher prevalence (18.9%) compared to women (14.8%).

Minister Kargougou described diabetes as a growing burden on the health system, pointing to its substantial impact on morbidity, mortality, and the development of complications.

“Diabetes constitutes a significant challenge in terms of health outcomes,” Kargougou stated.

“It brings with it severe consequences, including long-term health issues that affect individuals’ quality of life.”

In his remarks, Kargougou urged the public to take preventive steps, including regular physical activity, reducing sugar, salt, and fat intake, and monitoring blood glucose levels at least once a year.

He also stressed the importance of measuring blood pressure at least twice a year, advising that these proactive measures could play a crucial role in combating the rise of diabetes and its complications.

This year’s World Diabetes Day theme, “Diabetes and Well-being,” calls for a greater focus on ensuring people with diabetes have access to the care they need to live well with the disease.

The theme underscores the importance of both prevention and management, as the country works towards addressing this growing public health concern.