International Journal of Clinical Science and Medical Research

Background: 

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing problem all over the world, including Africa.  This disorder accounts for high morbidity and mortality due to microvascular complications especially in type 1 diabetics. This study was conducted to assess prevalence of microvascular complications as well as associated risk factors among adolescents aged 10-19 years obtaining care in Kigali city, in Rwanda.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 261 adolescents with type 1 DM attending care in a Rwandan Diabetic clinic in Kigali city. Participants were examined for microvascular complications and possible risk factors.

Results:

Thirteen of 261 participants had diabetic nephropathy (5%), 12 had diabetic retinopathy (4.6%), and 9 had diabetic neuropathy (3.4%). Risk factors for development of a microvascular complication included place of residence as well as previous hypoglycemia or hospitalization. In addition, 232 patients (88.9%) had poor levels of glycemic control.

Conclusion:

Microvascular complications seem to be common in adolescents with type 1 DM in our study setting. They appear to be associated with other morbid diabetic complications, which are indicative of poor diabetic disease control. Actions should therefore be directed towards glycemic control to prevent these complications.

Complications; type 1 Diabetes; Rwanda

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