La dimension nutritionnelle du traitement du diabète en Afrique sub-saharienne : études de cas au Mali

The galloping prevalence of chronic “lifestyle” diseases such as type 2 diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa calls for specific workforce needs for the prevention as well as the management of such diseases. Nutrition is at the core of the treatment and prevention of diabetes. Studies in Mali revealed inadequacies of nutrition counseling in diabetes care, despite the major efforts in this country. Health professionals, whether medical doctors, nurses, or nutritionists, have to receive specialized pre-service and in-service training in therapeutic nutrition education. The evidence-based training should aim at patient's self-care. This is the only way for improved eating and lifestyle practices to be sustained, thereby contributing to control of diabetes and its complications.