The importance of insulin donations for children in 43 low- and middle-income countries

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Hans V Hogerzeil1, Sterre Recourt2

  • 1Global Health Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands. hans.hogerzeil@kpnmail.nl.

Journal of Public Health Policy
|January 11, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Insulin access is critical for children with type 1 diabetes in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Sustainable national programs, not just donations, can improve survival and health outcomes for these young patients.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Global Health
  • Pediatric Diabetes Management

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus is a growing global health concern, with millions requiring insulin.
  • Access to insulin is severely limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), leading to premature deaths, particularly among children.
  • Type 1 diabetes affects a significant pediatric population globally.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of insulin donation programs on children with type 1 diabetes in LMIC.
  • To demonstrate the feasibility of diagnosing, treating, and preventing complications in this population.
  • To propose a sustainable model for national diabetes care and prevention programs.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of experiences from insulin-producing companies' support programs in 43 LMIC since 2000.
  • Assessment of improvements in survival rates, body weight, glucose levels, and complication frequency.
  • Development of a ten-step transition process for sustainable national programs.

Main Results:

  • Insulin donation programs have shown significant improvements in survival, body weight, and glucose control.
  • Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of fatal complications are achievable in LMIC settings.
  • Medicine donations alone are not a sustainable long-term solution.

Conclusions:

  • Effective type 1 diabetes care for children is possible in LMIC with dedicated programs.
  • A transition from donation-based aid to sustainable national healthcare systems is essential.
  • A proposed ten-step process offers a pathway to comprehensive and sustainable diabetes management.

Keywords:
ChildrenDiabetes type 1Essential medicinesInsulinLow- and middle-income countriesMedicine donationsPharmaceutical companies

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