Spike in severe diabetes cases hits Zimbabwe

Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital (VCPH) has raised concern over escalating cases of late-diagnosed diabetes, a trend medical authorities say is fuelling life-threatening complications among patients in Manicaland.

Speaking after the hospital's belated World Diabetes Day commemorations, specialist consultant physician Dr Zwangendaba Mutsemi said most patients are now seeking medical help only when the disease has progressed to dangerous levels, resulting in increased admissions and a growing burden on the healthcare system.

He said delayed diagnosis and poor treatment adherence are driving severe conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS) and diabetic foot infections — cases that often require intensive management.

"We are seeing more patients being admitted with DKA, HHS and diabetic foot. All these point to poor glycaemic control and delayed care-seeking in the community," said Dr Mutsemi. "Diabetes mellitus has become the second most prevalent condition we handle at VCPH."

He noted that many patients default on medication, while others only learn they are diabetic once they develop advanced complications.

"Many individuals are only being diagnosed when they present with severe symptoms. There is poor uptake of routine screening, and most patients only seek care when they are already clinically decompensated," he said.

The physician also revealed that the hospital is recording an increase in insulin-dependent patients who relapse into critical condition due to stopping medication.

In response, VCPH is expanding community education and screening efforts, taking awareness campaigns into rural and urban communities through clinics, schools, workplaces, churches and Village Health Workers.

"We intend to enhance community-based health education using multiple structures. We will introduce scheduled diabetes screening days at primary care facilities to detect cases earlier," said Dr Mutsemi.

He said early treatment, active screening and preventive lifestyle changes remain the most effective tools in controlling the disease.

"Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through healthier eating, weight loss and increased physical activity. Reduced intake of simple sugars and more traditional high-fibre meals are essential," he said.

He encouraged adults — especially those with symptoms or family history — to undergo routine blood glucose checks.

Dr Mutsemi said the hospital is strengthening long-term diabetes management structures, including support groups, follow-up monitoring through Village Health Workers, and SMS or phone reminders for medication and check-ups. Stable patients will soon be managed closer to home through decentralised diabetes care.

He added that family involvement improves treatment success, as home environments influence diet, medication consistency and emotional support.

During the commemorations, patients were also trained on how to check blood sugar at home using glucometers — a skill Dr Mutsemi encouraged more people, especially diagnosed individuals, to adopt.

The specialist urged communities to take symptoms seriously and seek medical care early.

"Our message is simple — recognise diabetes signs early: excessive thirst, excessive urination, unexplained weight loss and weakness. Present early for screening before complications develop," he said.

He stressed that most diabetes-related complications are avoidable with timely action.

"Complications are largely preventable through early management and strict adherence to antidiabetic therapy. Those who act quickly stand a better chance."

As cases continue to rise, VCPH hopes its outreach programme will reverse the late-diagnosis trend and save more lives.