The Luanda Medical Center (LMC) brought together around 100 nurses, nutritionists and other health professionals to reflect and debate on the provision of care to patients with diabetes mellitus, with a focus on inpatient services, and an exchange of knowledge and updating of clinical practices with workshops and specialized lectures.
“Although it is a chronic disease that requires lifelong care and still has no cure, it is now possible to live fully with diabetes mellitus. To do so, however, it is essential that patients implement lifestyle changes and have the discipline to follow the treatment prescribed by their doctor,” said Filipa Namoncito, LMC’s coordinating nurse, during the initiative, which took place last Saturday in Luanda.
Diabetes mellitus is a disease characterized by increased blood sugar (glucose) levels. It is estimated that there are currently 1.8 million people with diabetes mellitus in Angola, which corresponds to 5.6 percent of the population. In 2020 alone, 1,674 new cases were reported (84.5 percent), with the most frequent being Type 2 diabetes mellitus.
“Adherence to treatment is today one of the major challenges in adequately controlling diabetes mellitus. To achieve this control, it is necessary to follow a healthy eating habit, engage in regular physical activities and follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor. Patient commitment, professional monitoring and family support are also important. Access to quality information and understanding about diabetes mellitus, its risks and consequences are also essential,” argued Filipa Namoncito.
Characterized as a silent disease, as patients can go years without showing or noticing any symptoms, diabetes is often detected at an advanced stage. For Daniela Campos, Director of Nursing at LMC, early detection of diabetes is “fundamental to preventing serious complications,” allowing healthcare professionals to develop personalized treatment plans that meet the specific needs of each patient, leading to better blood glucose monitoring and health.
“Guidance on disease management, long-term diabetes management; dietary choices result in adequate glycemic control, reducing the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease, retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy. Early detection is therefore crucial to improved patients’ quality of life and minimize the risks of complications associated with diabetes,” highlighted Daniela Campos.
