From about 1994 onwards, a considerable number of Cambodians were recorded as suffering from hypertension, stroke, retinopathy and other complications normally associated with diabetes.
The majority of Cambodians still live in rural areas and follow a very traditional life style . However, their diet consists of at least 73% refined rice (FAO, 2005). There is also a very high consumption of sodium particularly in the use of Monosodium Glutamate.
The Cambodian Diabetes Association (CDA) was founded in 2000 and in 2004, the first epidemiological studies were carried out in Cambodia to investigate the prevalence of diabetes.
Estimates for 2010 suggest there are approximately 354,000 people living with type 2 diabetes in Cambodia. This number is expected to rise above one million by the year 2030. Check out the CDA website below - http://www.cdasiemreap.org/
Registration for screening
A new branch of CDA was opened in Siem Reap in June, 2010. This centre is for the prevention, treatment and control of diabetes and associated complications.The vision for the centre is wide reaching with the aim to promote well being of individuals both in mind and body. Among the activities undertaken at CDA Siem Reap Branch are:
Establishing peer-to-peer support groups which will enable individuals living with diabetes to better self-manage their condition. The leaders of these groups will be trained to provide support and awareness sessions through regular, local meetings.
Screening of communities to identify adults living with type 2 diabetes as well as those with hypertension.
Raising awareness of diabetes through activities such as World Diabetes Day and a primary school health and garden project.
Training health professionals in diabetes awareness.
Encouraging research into diabetes.
Identifying individuals living with type 1 diabetes.
In the long-term, it is planned to create an infrastructure which will enable the poorest individuals to be able to attain necessary medications and treatments.