Conference Resources | Abstracts
September 3
rd
– 6
th
, 2014 | Toronto, Canada |
236
P148
Diabetes youth care-support group for young people living with diabetes mellitus in Ghana
N.A. Barnes
1
, E. Asante-Bediako
2
1
Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, Internal Medicine, Sekondi, Ghana,
2
Effia Nkwanta Regional
Hospital, Sekondi, Ghana
Introduction:
The prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in Ghana is estimated at 3.35% in a
population of 25 million however, the incidence of diabetes in young ones under the age of 30 years is
unknown. Moreover, knowledge about DM in young people is minimal with no or little information in
both health and non-health professionals.
Diabetes Youth Care (DYC) consisting of both medical and non-medical volunteers was created to
support young ones living with diabetes.
Objectives:
1. Create a support network for young ones under the age of 30 living with diabetes and their families.
2. Create a platform for the dissemination of information to medical personnel and the general public
about diabetes.
Invitation to Group/Methods:
Open invitations were sent to young people living with diabetes and
their families through health facilities and social networks online. Monthly meeting were started from
November 2012 till date with a range of topics in diabetes care.
Activities and Outcomes:
The DYC started with 5 young people and has a membership of 40 to
date, the youngest member is 8 years old and the oldest is 30 years old.
In DYC they do not feel isolated as they meet their peers also living with DM.
Glucometers and strips, for home monitoring of blood glucose together with insulin are provided for
members through donations.
Education of the young ones with diabetes about management of emergencies has resulted in
improved care and drastic reduction in emergency room visits.
Parents or guardians who attend DYC have been able to manage emergencies such as hypo- and
hyperglycemia.
Home visits are also conducted by DYC personnel to augment clinical and social services.
A website was developed
together with a social media platform-
.
[Diabetes Youth Care]
Conclusion:
Diabetes Youth Care is currently the only support group in Ghana and is making strides
in improving the lives of young ones living with diabetes and the lives of their families.
