1. (a), (b) and (c) The Department is concerned about the growing number of people diagnosed with diabetes. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% of all cases and is associated with obesity, unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or better managed when people make healthy lifestyle choices. It is for this reason that the Department is acceleration implementation of preventive programmes.
2. (a) The Department has taken and will continue to take serious steps to prevent and control diabetes. The intensity of the Department’s intervention in this regard, is amongst others demonstrated by the fact that the Department has for the past two years, used part of the Health Promotion Levy to provide tools to provinces to facilitate increased screening and focussed health education in the community and in primary health care facilities for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, and promoting physical activity and healthy eating.
(b) The Department has a directorate for NCDs, and national managers work with managers in provinces and districts to pursue the objectives of the programme. The programme is currently achieving its screening targets. Outcome targets will be measured though the WHO STEP survey which is scheduled to commence during the 2024-2025 financial year.
(3) No, it is not necessary to make a statement.
END.