WHO says 18% of COVID-19 deaths in Africa are related to diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that global studies have found that increases the risk of serious illness and death among coronavirus-infected patients. The World Health Organization now estimates that over 18% of coronavirus deaths in Africa are among patients with diabetes.

According to an analysis of 14 African nations that have provided information on COVID-19 and comorbidities, people over the age of 60 face increased risks of complications or death from COVID-19.

“Too many people are unaware that they have diabetes. People with this chronic condition suffer a double hit if they are also infected with COVID-19, “said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.” We need to change this by investing in early diagnosis, prevention and in the treatment of diabetes “.

WHO said: ” the African region is also seeing an increase in diabetes risk factors such as obesity. An increasingly sedentary lifestyle and the consumption of foods rich in sugar, fat and salt are increasing obesity, which ranges from 2.5% of adults in Burundi to 26.9% in Seychelles. ”

“We must not lose sight of other health challenges as we fight COVID-19. World Diabetes Day is a key “We must not lose sight of other health challenges as we fight COVID-19. World Diabetes Day is a key time to draw attention to this chronic disease, which is increasingly threatening the lives of Africans, “said Moeti.

The report comes one day before World Diabetes Day, which is celebrated annually on November 14th^th

Meanwhile, Africa has recorded more than 1.9 million COVID-19 cases and 45,000 deaths with over 1.6 million recoveries, according to WHO.