17 Nov 2020

Prevention and treatment services for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have been severely disrupted since the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, says endocronology nurse at Block Six Clinic, Mr David Barungwi.

Giving an update on Botswana Television Live Programme on Monday, Mr Barungwi said the situation was worrisome because people living with NCDs were at higher risk of severe COVID-19-related illness and death.

Block Six Clinic which serves as a Diabetic Centre in Gaborone experienced discontinued or reduced services as well as cancellations of planned treatments during the first extreme social distancing, he said.

Mr Barungwi said the situation made life difficult for some of their patients as they started experiencing changes in the control of their health conditions; as they were not able to get medications well during that time.

He however, said the disruptions did not cause any loss of lives and the health workers were working hard to normalise the sugar readings of patients who experienced some changes.

Regarding shortage of medication, he said the clinic like any other health facility experienced shortages during extreme social distancing as suppliers were not able to get services from outside the country.

He however said the situation had since normalised.

Mr Barungwi said there was a decline in visits as some patients were still reluctant to come to the clinic, for fear of contacting COVID-19. He however urged them to adhere to COVID-19 protocols and follow their planned check-ups.

For her part, the clinic dietician, Ms Tshepo Makete said eating certain foods while limiting others could help people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels.

She said a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and healthful proteins could have significant benefits for people with diabetes.

Ms Makete said ‘living with diabetes does not have to mean feeling deprived’, adding that people should learn to balance meals and make healthful food choices.

She recommended eating food containing a lot of fibre and also stick to traditional foods instead of processed ones.

She said balancing diet could help maintain good health, improve overall well-being and prevent future complications. Ends