Despite being World Diabetes Day today, a review of data from the City of Cape Town Health Department has indicated a decline in the number of clients that have been screened and a slight increase in new diabetes cases, Cape town Etc reports.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects more than 4.2 million South Africans, and is the second leading cause of death in South Africa, behind Tuberculosis.
In the 2023/24 financial year, City clinics have screened 110 187 clients aged between 18 and 39, and 68 709 clients aged 40 and up, with these numbers representing a 15 decrease for both groups, compared to the year before, according to a press statement issued by the City .
During the same period, City clinics have recorded an 8 increase in the number of new diabetes clients, from 966 the previous year, to 1 047.
Preventing and managing the risk of diabetes is an individual choice, but it is not top of mind for many people, either because they believe they are too young, or they dont have enough information on preventative measures or struggle to make lifestyle changes, said Councillor Patricia Van der Ross, Mayco Member for Community Services and Health.
