COVID-19 impact on people with diabetes in South and Central America (SACA region)

Abstract

The present observational study aims to describe political actions in place to combat COVID-19 in the South and Central America region (SACA) while protecting individuals with diabetes.Methods: A survey with 12 questions was shared with all IDF-SACA member organizations, in 18 countries. A descriptive analysis was performed and a multivariate cluster analysis technique pam (partitioning around medoids) was applied.Results: Two groups of countries were identified. The first group, mostly countries with stricter measures to contain the spread of the virus, reported more difficulties (limitations in accessing basic or health needs) and fears (concerns regarding the impact of the pandemic); whereas most of the second group consisted of countries with less restrictive measures, and reported fewer difficulties. Only 37% responded that a policy was put into place to protect individuals with diabetes, either delivering their medicines and supplies at home (16%) or providing them at once enough for 2-3 months (21%). All respondents reported that one of the main fear was to ''be infected and not to receive adequate treatment" and/or ''getting infected if going to the hospital or medical appointments". Conclusion:Most of the SACA countries failed to implement timely measures to protect individuals with diabetes, which may severely impact individuals, health systems and economies.

Decentralized COVID-19 measures in Brazil were ineffective to protect people with diabetes

“…Another important limitation is the uneven response from the different states, which adds some uncertainty to the results from states with less representation. Thus, although the challenges identified here, during the COVID-19 pandemic, coincides with anecdotal reports and analysis and studies of the country and its region [ 11 , 18 , 27 ], we highlight the limitations due to a convenience sample without post-stratification weights.…”

“…The decentralized and uncoordinated measures implemented by states in Brazil left most people with diabetes unprotected (going outside to receive or to purchase their medical supplies) and at increased risk (higher glycemic levels or variability). Lack of specific measures to protect people with diabetes during the pandemic and their limited reach were also reported in neighboring countries in Latin America [ 27 ], where 68% experienced shortage of medicines or medical supplies and 57% experienced difficulties to access medical services already in the first months of the pandemic.…”

A cross sectional study reveals severe disruption in glycemic control in people with diabetes during and after lockdown in India

“…With no doubts, lockdown measures and mobility restrictions were found effective to control the spread of COVID-19 [ 24 ], but, at the same time, showing their harmful consequences on prevention and control of diabetes and other NCDs [ 25 ]. Barone et al., reported that stricter measures against the pandemic may lead to present and future severe impact on diabetes care in South and Central America [ 26 ]. Though mobility restrictions are eased during the post-lockdown phase in India, fear of getting infected with COVID-19 and “work from home” scenario is keeping people confined to their homes only.…”

Current State of Diabetes Mellitus Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control in Latin America: Challenges and Innovative Solutions to Improve Health Outcomes Across the Continent

“…During the writing of this manuscript, Latin America had been recognized as the new epicenter of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic [ 306 ]. The effects of the disease in persons with diabetes in the region are beginning to be uncovered [ 307 – 309 ], while some solutions are proposed [ 310 , 311 ]. The magnitude of the impact of the pandemic on the health and health care needs of persons with diabetes mellitus and other NCDs—let alone on the health care systems infrastructures—in the region are yet to be known.…”