P-422: Assessing healthcare workers awareness and knowledge of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children and adolescent at Lagos, Nigeria
J Atere, A Oduwole, E OyenusiAbstract
Introduction
An estimated 63,000 people in Nigeria are living with Type 1 diabetes (T1d), with approximately 18,000 cases occurring in individuals under 20 years old. (Type 1 diabetes index) an average 10 year old in Nigeria enjoys 63 healthy years of life, if they develop T1d on average they will lose 42 of their healthy year. Up to 72% of children living with type 1 diabetes from the referral centers in Lagos, Nigeria present with Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), largely due to delayed diagnosis associated with limited Healthcare workers (Hcw) knowledge and awareness.
Objectives
To assess Healthcare workers’ knowledge, and practices relating to T1d, including recognition of warning signs, acute management, and referral pathways.
Methods
A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 100 Health workers (Doctors, Nurses, Laboratory Scientists and Pharmacists) across five hospitals in Surulere, Lagos Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising of 30 questions, designed to assess knowledge of T1d signs and symptoms, clinical experience, basic management and care practices.
Results
Ninety-five percent of Hcw completed the questionnaires. (55%) reported learning about diabetes during professional training and had limited experience managing children and youth with T1d. 40% were unaware of T1d as a condition. Only 5% recognised the need to check blood glucose in a child presenting with with symptoms suggestive of T1d and 3% of those that recognize the signs and symptoms of Hypo- and Hyperglycemia, and outline appropriate Hypoglycaemia treatment, only 3% could describe correct referral pathways.
Conclusions
Hcws in Lagos demonstrated significant gaps in awareness and knowledge of T1d. Targeted education and training focused on early recognition, acute management, and adequate referrals of children and youth are urgently needed to reduce preventable DKA admissions.