Browsing: COVID-19 and diabetes

• Africa’s death rates from COVID-19 infections are significantly higher in patients with diabetes
• The disease causes inflammation and poor blood circulation, both of which increase the risk of complications, including death, from COVID-19
• In addition to people with diabetes, the three most frequent underlying conditions included patients with HIV and hypertension

New data indicates that Africa’s sharp increase in diabetes is clashing with the COVID-19 pandemic and poor access to vaccines.

Africa’s death rates from COVID-19 infections are significantly higher in patients with diabetes, according to a preliminary analysis which the World Health Organization (WHO) presented today in advance of the World Diabetes Day on 14 November.

Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa said the COVID-19 pandemic will eventually subside, but Africa is projected in the coming years to experience the highest increase in diabetes globally.

“We must act now to prevent new cases, vaccinate people who have …