Improving diabetes care in Sri Lankan children: the way forward

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease. The incidence of T1DM is on the increase worldwide. The incidence in Sri Lanka is yet to be determined but there has been a definite increase in its occurrence in the recent past. Uncontrolled diabetes gives rise to micro vascular and macrovascular complications. Various strategies are being implemented to improve care for children with T1DM worldwide. Intensive blood glucose control, regular blood glucose monitoring, screening for complications are prerequisites for better diabetes management. The diabetic care of Sri Lankan children needs to be optimised. Compared to the West we do encounter many practical difficulties. This article discusses the facilities that we have compared to other countries who have achieved good glycaemic control in children and the way forward for the Sri Lankan paediatric population.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sjdem.v2i1.4333 Sri Lanka Journal of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism 2012; 2: 35-38

Keywords

• type 1 diabetes mellitus
• children
• management