Rising diabetes cases put strain on Taita Taveta’s health system
Health authorities in Taita Taveta County have sounded the alarm over a growing number of diabetes cases, warning that the trend is stretching health sector services and resources thin. Recent reporting indicates that more than half of the patients admitted to key facilities are dealing with diabetes-related complications, signaling a shift in the burden of non-communicable diseases in the region.
What is driving the increase?
Public health officials point to a combination of factors fueling the rise. Urbanization and changes in lifestyle have contributed to higher rates of obesity, poor dietary choices, and reduced physical activity—all known risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Limited access to routine screening in some rural areas means many cases go undiagnosed until complications arise, pressuring emergency and inpatient services at county facilities.
Impact on hospitals and patient care
With diabetes representing a rising proportion of admissions, clinics report longer wait times, higher medication costs, and greater demand for specialized care such as endocrinology consultations and diabetes education. Moi County Referral Hospital and other county facilities are at the forefront of managing this burden, adapting workflows to accommodate an influx of patients requiring blood sugar monitoring, insulin therapy, and lifestyle counseling.
Who is affected?
While diabetes affects adults across various age groups, officials say the condition is increasingly seen among middle-aged residents in the region. Co-existing risk factors such as hypertension and high cholesterol further complicate management and heighten the risk of serious complications like heart disease, kidney failure, and vision problems. The public health challenge is compounded by rising cases of gestational diabetes, which has implications for maternal and newborn health in the county.
What is being done?
County health authorities are mobilizing a multi-pronged response. Initiatives include expanding screening programs at health centers, integrating community health workers to identify at-risk individuals, and scaling up diabetes education to empower patients with self-management skills. There is also a push to improve supply chains for essential medicines, including insulin and glucose-lowering medications, to ensure uninterrupted treatment for those in need.
Prevention and community involvement
Experts emphasize prevention as the most effective long-term strategy. Public awareness campaigns focus on healthy eating, regular physical activity, and routine screening for those with risk factors or a family history of diabetes. Community organizations, religious groups, and schools are being engaged to promote lifestyle changes and to reduce stigma associated with chronic diseases, encouraging people to seek timely medical advice.
What residents can do now
- Schedule regular blood sugar tests, especially if you have risk factors or a family history of diabetes.
- Adopt a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods and sugary drinks.
- Incorporate physical activity into daily routines, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as co-morbid conditions can worsen diabetes outcomes.
- Seek prompt medical advice if you notice symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
Looking ahead
Officials acknowledge that reversing the rise in diabetes will require sustained investment in prevention, early detection, and treatment infrastructure. As the county grapples with this public health challenge, collaboration among government, health facilities, communities, and development partners will be crucial to reducing complications and preserving the wellbeing of residents in Taita Taveta.
