A survey of diabetes services in hospitals in Papua New Guinea.

AIM

To determine the number and distribution of diabetic persons in Papua New Guinea (PNG), and to document available services.

METHODS

Survey of the 19 hospitals thought to be the most significant centres for care of diabetes.

RESULTS

16 hospitals were successfully surveyed. Type 1 diabetes is very rare, with 18 known cases in the country (6 less than 15 years old). Known type 2 cases totalled around 4600 with almost all cases in coastal centres, particularly Port Moresby, East New Britain and Manus. There were very few cases in the highlands. Insulin is generally available, along with oral hypoglycaemic drugs. Testing for complications is very limited, and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) testing is available in only one centre. Only 3 trained diabetes educators are available in the country, with 1 dietitian and no specialist endocrinologists.

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of persons with type 2 diabetes in PNG are undiagnosed and are not receiving treatment: based on the lower of two country prevalence estimates, less than 3% of the diabetic persons in the country are seen at health facilities. Services are limited, with only a handful of health professionals specially trained in diabetes. Expansion of services and awareness and prevention programs are urgently needed.