IDMPS Wave 7 Africa

Diabetes is a major economic burden and has rapidly increased worldwide. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 90–95% of cases, has increased particularly in the developing world. Early treatment intensification may decrease the morbidity and mortality of diabetes by lowering the risk of related chronic complications. The majority of patients, however, do not achieve glycaemic targets, and consequently suffer from complications secondary to suboptimal glycaemic control. A large number of epidemiological studies or national registers have been analysed at both country and regional levels, particularly in developed countries, in order to assess the quality of care in patients with diabetes, or to determine compliance with national treatment guidelines. There is a paucity of data from the developing world, particularly in Africa, with regard to the quality of care of people with type 2 diabetes. A better understanding of the missing gaps within current diabetes management is therefore required in order to improve the quality of care of these patients.