Rising diabetes rates in Moldova: A growing public health challenge
Approximately seven percent of the population in the Republic of Moldova suffers from diabetes, and over the past 12 years, the number of affected individuals has nearly tripled.
Experts claim that this is a major public health problem requiring heightened attention, alongside more efficient intervention measures.
Tatiana Boaghi has had diabetes for several years. Due to the condition, she takes medication twice a day and follows a special diet. She states that she regularly consults her family doctor, who prescribes the necessary subsidised medications.
"You experience weakness. If you don’t eat properly, it can harm you. When your blood sugar rises, you feel pain in your bones and head, and you may experience itching, fatigue, and insomnia. Even though we sometimes eat sweets, we do so in moderation," says Tatiana Boaghi.
People with diabetes should avoid consuming carbohydrates, potatoes, pasta, alcoholic drinks, and sweets, according to family doctor Cristina Dolganiuc-Babără. "This disease is dangerous because it can lead to numerous complications. Every patient must monitor their blood sugar daily, adhere to strict oral anti-diabetic treatment, and avoid a sedentary lifestyle," said Dr. Dolganiuc-Babără.
More than 130,000 citizens in the Republic of Moldova have been diagnosed with diabetes, said Veronica Volcov, president of the Young People with Diabetes DIA Association, during the "Zi de Zi" (Everyday) program on Radio Moldova. More than 6,200 individuals with type 1 diabetes are insulin-dependent.
"There are 750 children registered with type 1 diabetes, which can develop at any age and is equally challenging. We are confronted with the growing incidence and prevalence of diabetes, including type 1," warns Veronica Volcov.
Although it is a progressive disease, people with diabetes can live an active life if they manage their condition. If not kept under control, diabetes is one of the main causes of early disability: heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, liver damage, blindness, and lower limb amputations. The National Public Health Agency estimates that the number of people with diabetes worldwide could rise to 1.3 billion by 2050. Currently, one in ten adults worldwide live with diabetes, and three out of four people with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
