Community Support Group Takes Action on Behalf of People with Diabetes in Bolivia

Community Support Group Takes Action on Behalf of People with Diabetes in Bolivia

It is estimated that 62 million people throughout the Americas suffer from diabetes, a disease that claims the lives of 240,000 per year (PAHO). In Bolivia, the National Health Information System (SNIS) estimates that the prevalence of diabetes is 6.6%; i.e., 362,000 people live with the disease.

People with diabetes, 60% of them women (PAHO), can present many serious complications that persist over time. The disease is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure, among others.

That's why at Pro Mujer we understand the need to expand women's access to preventive health screenings, through physical, digital, and community outreach spaces, as well as to valuable information with the aim of reducing the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

In February, in La Guardia, a department of Santa Cruz, more than 100 peoplewere able to access information and support for the care and prevention of diabetes. Thanks to the new community support group that was formed in the area, a number of professionals provided health checkups, free blood sugar tests, and personalized care.

After six months of sustained work with local doctors and authorities, the group managed to consolidate a support community to strengthen the practice of healthy habits among the community and encourage people to continue with their treatments.

A walk that saw the participation of the town's residents was organized to celebrate the success of this initiative!

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