Diabetes among children in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) is becoming an alarming issue, with type 2 diabetes showing an increasing prevalence. Once known as “adult-onset” diabetes, type 2 is now affecting younger populations, largely due to rising obesity rates, lack of physical activity, and poor dietary habits. Dr. Andrew Dhanoo, President of the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago (DATT), expressed the urgency of addressing this shift. “Overweight children are likely to become overweight adults, which leads to earlier diagnoses and complications related to diabetes,” he said.
To combat this trend, the DATT has implemented a range of initiatives, including school awareness programs and its annual Child Lifestyle Camp. This camp specifically targets overweight children and those at risk, encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyle choices.
The DATT has also noted a concerning rise in Type 1 diabetes, potentially linked to viral infections like Covid-19, which have been shown to trigger the disease. Many children now face lifelong dependence on insulin and continuous blood glucose monitoring, an issue the association is focusing on.
“In providing support to these children and their families, we remain committed to improving their quality of life,” Dr. Dhanoo stated.
One of the critical initiatives underway is the distribution of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for all children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, with plans to introduce insulin pumps. These advanced tools can effectively function as an artificial pancreas, greatly enhancing the management of the disease.
The DATT offers CGMs such as the 15-day LINX sensor, which can be easily obtained by calling the association or visiting their website. This device is suitable for anyone, not just those living with diabetes, as it tracks the effects of food, activity, and medications on blood sugar levels. It provides real-time glucose readings every minute and allows remote monitoring by caregivers if connected to the internet.
Another critical issue that the DATT is focusing on is diabetic foot care. In T&T, diabetic foot complications are a major cause of hospital admissions. To address this, the DATT has launched a diabetic foot screening program, training community members to detect early signs of foot problems. This initiative aims to prevent complications through early professional intervention, preventing severe outcomes like amputations.
Dr. Dhanoo emphasized the importance of timely treatment, explaining that early medical attention for foot injuries can prevent significant physical and mental health challenges. The DATT plans to intensify its focus on this issue in 2025.
While Dr. Dhanoo does not have diabetes himself, the disease is prevalent in his family, motivating his dedication to the cause. After completing his first degree, he began volunteering with the DATT and later took on the role of president. Under his leadership, the association has made significant strides, and he was recently awarded the Chaconia Medal (Silver) for his contributions to healthcare and national wellbeing.
Reflecting on his recognition, Dhanoo stated, “I’m incredibly grateful, and this honor belongs to everyone at the DATT—our board members, staff, volunteers, and partners. This acknowledgment motivates us to continue our efforts and to make an even greater impact.”
Dhanoo also highlighted the gender disparity in volunteerism, noting that men tend to volunteer less frequently than women. He is working to engage more men, particularly younger men, through the association’s internship programs and community outreach efforts. His goal is to create a more robust and informed community through increased male involvement.
Looking forward, Dhanoo envisions the DATT becoming a leader in diabetes research in T&T and the Caribbean. This includes regular screenings, tracking diabetes prevalence, and exploring innovative ways to prevent and manage the disease. Ultimately, he sees the establishment of a multidisciplinary diabetes center offering free services and leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve public health outcomes.
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