Visionary Reports

With diabetes cases on the rise and significant impacts on both physical and mental health. The symposium on Wednesday November 12 raised awareness on prevention strategies

Medical practitioners raised awareness on Diabetes

As part of activities to commemorate World Diabetes Day on November 14, the Douala Laquintinie Hospital held a symposium titled “Diabetes and Well-being” on November 12, 2025. The event, organized under the leadership of Dr. Marie Solange Ndom Ebongue Manga, aimed to educate the community about diabetes and its management.Healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, psychologists, and dieticians, shared their expertise on various aspects of diabetes, including emergencies, complications, and preventive care. Dr. Dikoume Ebele, a specialist in endocrinology and diabetology, began the discussions by addressing hyperglycemic emergencies. She noted a concerning trend: “Four out of five patients don’t know they are diabetic,” highlighting the insidious nature of the disease.Emphasizing the seriousness of diabetes, Dr. Ebele stated, “Diabetes is now the fifth leading cause of death worldwide.” She stressed the importance of treatment that goes beyond merely lowering blood glucose to managing underlying issues such as ketoacidosis and hyperosmolarity.On his part, Dr. Khadidja Mouhamadou discussed the critical issue of diabetic foot complications. “When diabetes is poorly managed, it can lead to severe consequences, including amputations,” she said, revealing that a related amputation occurs every 30 seconds globally. Dr. Mouhamadou advocated for early detection and preventive measures to potentially avoid up to 50% of such amputations.Meanwhile, Ngouabe Aude, head of the Infecsodiabeto department, highlighted the pivotal role of nurses in diabetes care. “The nurse empowers the patient,” she remarked, emphasizing therapeutic education. Madam Aude encouraged the integration of family support to help patients achieve autonomy in managing their condition.Dietitian Sen Mariama provided insights into nutrition for diabetic patients, noting the importance of balancing energy intake with energy expenditure to maintain stable blood sugar levels. She recommended a diet focused on minimally processed foods rich in fiber and protein.Clinical psychologist David Domgue addressed the psychological challenges faced by diabetic patients, including emotional burden, anxiety, and depression. He pointed out the impact of chronic stress on both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, underscoring the need for mental health support in managing the disease.The symposium at Laquintinie Hospital serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of education, prevention, and comprehensive care in managing diabetes effectively. The collective effort of healthcare professionals aims to empower patients and mitigate the rising tide of this global health crisis.

By Gina Esong