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The latest report indicates a doubling of type 2 diabetes cases in Uganda over eight years, with a prevalence of 2.6%. Factors include a rise in overweight individuals, high alcohol consumption and unhealthy eating habits. Dr. Bahendeka emphasizes the deterioration in food quality, urging regular blood sugar checks, especially for those with a family history of diabetes.

The latest report reveals a twofold increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes over the past eight years. According to the preliminary findings from the 2023 STEPS Survey on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Uganda, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has risen to 2.6%, up from 1.4% as reported in the 2014 STEPS Survey. This indicates a nearly doubled number of individuals affected, with a significant portion remaining unaware of their condition.

Type 2 diabetes is linked to a sedentary lifestyle, characterized by physical inactivity and excessive weight gain. The lead investigator, Dr. Silver Bahendeka, notes a noticeable increase in diabetes cases in rural areas, erasing the previously observed urban-rural disparity.

The report further discloses a surge in the proportion of overweight Ugandans, escalating from 9.2% to approximately 33% within the same period. Alarmingly, 33 out of 100 individuals aged 18 to 69 are now exceeding the recommended weight.

Additionally, the prevalence of excessive alcohol consumption remains high at around 8%, affecting eight out of every 100 individuals. Unhealthy dietary habits are also prominent, with 9% of Ugandans consuming foods rich in salt and oils while lacking in fruits and vegetables.

Dr. Bahendeka emphasizes the deterioration in the quality of consumed foods both at home and in hotels over the past three years. The findings highlight a widespread tendency, irrespective of urban or rural residence or economic status, to indulge in processed and junk foods, including sugar-sweetened beverages, chapati, French fries, deep-fried cassava chips, and white bread.

Notably, the report underscores the urgent need for diabetes care, emphasizing the potential organ damage if left untreated. Dr. Bahendeka attributes the rise in type 2 diabetes to factors such as escalating weight gain, irregular physical activity, and poor dietary choices, including the consumption of processed and junk foods.

He urges the public, especially those with a family history of diabetes, to undergo regular blood sugar level checks, beginning at the age of 34 and repeating every three years. The recommended time for testing is one hour after a meal or after ingesting 75 grams of glucose, with the desired blood sugar levels being less than 8.6 mmol/L. Individuals already managing diabetes are advised to seek personalized advice from healthcare professionals.