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Health News of Thursday, 20 June 2024

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Ministry of Health enhances diabetes care access with donations from Sanofi

The donation included glucometers and HbA1c analyzers The donation included glucometers and HbA1c analyzers

Sanofi, an innovative global healthcare company, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has contributed to the country's healthcare system with the common aim of tackling diabetes.

The partnership aims to co-develop a digital solution to assist healthcare professionals in supporting over 5,000 people living with diabetes in Ghana.

At a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health Auditorium, Sanofi delivered a substantial donation of diabetes devices, including glucometers and HbA1c analyzers, to four diabetes centers across the nation.

This donation marks the latest achievement in the ongoing three-year partnership between Sanofi and the Ministry of Health of Ghana, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in April 2023.

Dr. Bright Agyekum, Director of Procurement at the Ministry of Health, speaking on behalf of the Chief Director, Alhaji Hafiz Adam, echoed these sentiments in a keynote address. He emphasized the importance of the donated equipment in improving diabetes management, especially in remote communities, aligning with Ghana's Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Roadmap targets.

"This initiative ensures that every Ghanaian, regardless of their socio-economic background, has access to the necessary equipment for preventing, treating, and managing diabetes," he stated.

Dr. Stephane Gokou, Sanofi's General Medicines Affordable Strategy Lead, reaffirmed Sanofi’s commitment to global health.

"Our ambition to deliver better care and improve the quality of life for those living with diabetes knows no borders. We are proud to work closely with the Ministry of Health in Ghana to build on this strong start," he stated.

Dr. Hafez Adam Taher, Acting Director of Technical Coordination at the Ministry of Health, highlighted Sanofi's alignment with national healthcare objectives.

"Sanofi's dedication to reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes, aligns seamlessly with our national healthcare objectives. Their pledge to improve access to prevention, treatment, and care for individuals living with diabetes resonates deeply with our vision of a healthier, more equitable society," he remarked.

The International Diabetes Federation forecasts that the number of people with diabetes on the continent will increase by 129%, from 24 million to 55 million by 2045.

In Ghana, 329,200 adults are currently living with diabetes, with an estimated 54% undiagnosed.

The initiative aims to provide affordable access to high-quality Sanofi analog insulin products and implement comprehensive diabetes management solutions.