An Overview of Diabetes Mellitus in Egypt as a Major Public Health Problem

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rising rapidly in Egypt with major health and socioeconomic consequences. The shortage of endocrinologists is another important issue in Egypt that must be taken into consideration. Objective: To review and discuss the epidemiology, risk factors, and different ways of diabetes care in Egypt. In addition, the aim is also to analyze the problem of the shortage of endocrinologists and how it can be solved. Methods: Searching and reviewing medical literature using PubMed, Google scholar, and some other gray literature from the World Health Organization (WHO), International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Results: Egypt is ranked ninth in the prevalence of diabetes worldwide according to IDF with a prevalence of 15.2% in the adult population in early 2020. The prevalence is expected to continue rising to more serious levels. This high prevalence is attributed to common risk factors in Egypt such as obesity, physical inactivity, chronic hepatitis C infection, pesticides, smoking, and bad eating habits. Moreover, we are in an increased demand for more endocrinologists in the Egyptian health care system. Conclusion: Understanding and avoiding the risk factors of diabetes is a crucial step towards reducing its prevalence and minimizing its healthcare and socioeconomic burdens in Egypt. Effective strategies should be applied for proper diabetes management and improving the quality of life in diabetic patients. Increasing the number of endocrinologists is also a key element for better diabetes care. Keywords: Diabetes in Egypt, Diabetes epidemiology, Hepatitis C virus, Obesity, Smoking, Pesticides.