MUHIMBILI National Hospital (MNH) - Mloganzila has expanded its diagnostic and treatment services for diabetes patients by introducing two new clinics, including one specializing in foot care to detect signs of numbness and high blood pressure in the feet.

Dr Faraja Chiwanga, MNH Head of Training, Research and Professional Advisory Unit, and who is an endocrinologist, shared this update yesterday in Dar es Salaam during commemoration of World Diabetes Day.

Dr Chiwanga explained that among the complications affecting diabetes patients are damage to body parts, particularly the feet as well as issues like male impotence and reduced sexual sensitivity in women. The new foot care clinic aims to detect early signs of these complications.

Additionally, the hospital has launched a specialized transition clinic for young people aged 18 to 25.

“The introduction of these services is part of the government’s efforts to improve healthcare in the country, including establishment of specialized treatments that were previously unavailable here. This reduces the burden on citizens and the costs of seeking treatment abroad,” said Dr Chiwanga.

He further emphasized that the new services will expand the range of healthcare services available at the hospital.

“For example, this transition clinic is the first of its kind in the country. It will serve young people who require special care and counselling compared to patients in other age groups,” he said.

Dr Aidan Banduka, an endocrinologist at MNH - Mloganzila, said there has been an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment at the clinic due to high quality of services provided.

He reported that the clinic sees between 80 and 160 patients daily, and from December 2022 to date, they have treated over 30,000 patients, including 6,535 new cases.

Dr Banduka also emphasized that Tanzanians should take preventive measures against diabetes by adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet, reducing salt and fat intake, avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, and engaging in regular exercise.

The launch of the services coincided with the observance of World Diabetes Day, celebrated annually on November 14. This year's theme ‘Diabetes and Healthy Living’ aims to raise awareness of the impact of diabetes on both physical and mental health for those living with the condition.