South Africa can no longer afford to be passive in the fight against diabetes. The disease has become the country’s leading natural cause of death, claiming more lives than HIV, tuberculosis and cancer.

Health experts are sounding the alarm, warning that diabetes is no longer a “silent killer” but a growing national crisis that affects entire families and communities. While the disease can be managed successfully, failure to act early often results in severe complications and preventable deaths.

According to mortality data from Statistics South Africa, diabetes claims the lives of 27,692 people every year — an average of 78 deaths every day. The alarming figures have prompted the Diabetes Alliance to write to President Cyril Ramaphosa, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, calling for diabetes to be declared a national health emergency.

“If we don’t act now, we will lose more people due to a disease which can be treated to avoid fatalities,” said Dr Patrick Ngassa Piotie, Global Health Expert and Chairperson of the Diabetes Alliance.

“Millions of South Africans are living with diabetes. If we don’t take an immediate action, we will see more loved ones dying to a condition that can be successfully managed, treated or delayed.”

To combat the crisis, the Diabetes Alliance and other civil society organisations are calling for comprehensive action, including earlier diagnoses, stronger prevention programmes, improved access to healthcare, greater collaboration across sectors, community mobilisation and stronger political leadership.

Experts emphasise that diabetes management should not rest solely on the shoulders of those diagnosed with the disease. Family members play a critical role in helping loved ones maintain stable blood sugar levels and avoid complications.

People living with diabetes face daily challenges that can often feel overwhelming. Families can offer meaningful support by adopting healthier lifestyles together, including eating low-glycaemic index (GI), fibre-rich meals and participating in regular physical activity such as a daily 30-minute walk.

Emotional support is equally important. Simply listening to a loved one’s frustrations without judgement can help prevent what healthcare professionals refer to as “diabetes burnout” — the emotional exhaustion that often accompanies long-term disease management.

One of the greatest challenges in tackling diabetes is that many people are unaware they have the condition. The early stages frequently show few or no symptoms, allowing the disease to quietly damage vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and eyes. By the time serious complications such as stroke, kidney failure or vision loss emerge, the risks to a patient’s health and survival are significantly greater.

Dr Piotie said South Africa’s response to diabetes remains critically under-resourced and overlooked.

“The country lacks both a national diabetes registry and the coordinated, nationwide mobilisation that was previously seen in the fight against HIV,” he said.

“This leaves a major blind spot in the health system, making it difficult to track who has been diagnosed, who is receiving treatment and who has their condition under control.”

As diabetes continues to claim tens of thousands of lives annually, health advocates warn that urgent action is needed from government, healthcare providers, communities and families alike. Without a coordinated national response, the burden of the disease is likely to grow, placing even greater strain on households and the country’s healthcare system.

*Molemane is a Senior Journalist at Kaya FM and the winner of the 2025 Merck Foundation Diabetes and Hypertension Award for the SADC region.

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The Do’s

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Immediate First Aid

• Cool the Burn: As soon as a water burn occurs, run cool (not cold) water over the affected area for at least 1 – 2 minutes. This helps to reduce the temperature of the skin, stop the burning process, and relieve pain. A gentle stream of water from a faucet or a clean container can be used. For smaller burns, a cool, wet compress can also be applied.
• Remove Tight Items: If the burn is on an area where there are tight – fitting items such as rings, bracelets, or clothing, carefully remove them as soon as possible. Swelling can occur rapidly after a burn, and these items can restrict blood flow and cause further damage.
• Cover the Burn: After cooling the burn, cover it with a clean, non – sticking bandage or a piece of plastic wrap. This helps to protect the burn from infection and reduces pain by preventing air from reaching the sensitive skin. Make sure the covering is loose and does not put pressure on the burn.
• Seek Medical Attention: For burns that are larger than the size of a child’s palm, involve the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints, or if the burn appears deep (the skin is charred, white, or leathery), seek immediate medical help. Even for smaller burns, if there are signs of infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or discharge, consult a doctor.

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The Dont’s

First Aid Mistakes

• Don’t Use Ice: Avoid using ice directly on the burn. Ice can cause further damage to the skin by reducing blood flow and causing frostbite. Stick to cool water for the initial treatment.
• Don’t Apply Butter, Oil, or Other Home Remedies: Contrary to popular belief, applying butter, oil, toothpaste, or other substances to a burn is not recommended. These can trap heat in the burn, increase the risk of infection, and make it more difficult for medical professionals to assess the burn.
• Don’t Pop Blisters: Blisters are a natural way for the body to protect the underlying skin. Popping blisters can increase the risk of infection and slow down the healing process. If a blister breaks on its own, clean the area gently with mild soap and water and cover it with a bandage.

Long – Term Risks

• Don’t Ignore Follow – up Care: After a burn has been treated, it’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions for follow – up care. This may include applying prescribed creams, changing dressings regularly, and attending follow – up appointments. Ignoring these instructions can lead to complications such as infection, scarring, and poor healing.

By being aware of these do’s and don’ts, we can take proactive steps to prevent paediatric water burns and provide appropriate care when they do occur. Remember, the safety and well – being of our children are in our hands, and a little knowledge can go a long way in preventing these painful and potentially life – altering

Prevention Is Key

• Always test bath water before placing a child in it
• Keep hot drinks and pots out of reach
• Turn pot handles inward on the stove

Final Message
Paediatric water burns are preventable and manageable when handled correctly. Quick action, the right first aid, and avoiding common mistakes can significantly reduce complications and improve healing.

For more health tips:
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WhatsApp & Call: 062 831 4023

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