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Review
. 2016 Oct 18:9:31704.
doi: 10.3402/gha.v9.31704. eCollection 2016.

Challenges in diabetes mellitus type 2 management in Nepal: a literature review

Bishal Gyawali  1   2 , Alessandra Ferrario  3 , Edwin van Teijlingen  4 , Per Kallestrup  1
Affiliations
Review

Challenges in diabetes mellitus type 2 management in Nepal: a literature review

Bishal Gyawali et al. Glob Health Action. .

Abstract

Background and objectives: Diabetes has become an increasingly prevalent and severe public health problem in Nepal. The Nepalese health system is struggling to deliver comprehensive, quality treatment and services for diabetes at all levels of health care. This study aims to review evidence on the prevalence, cost and treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2 and its complications in Nepal and to critically assess the challenges to be addressed to contain the epidemic and its negative economic impact.

Design: A comprehensive review of available evidence and data sources on prevalence, risk factors, cost, complications, treatment, and management of diabetes mellitus type 2 in Nepal was conducted through an online database search for articles published in English between January 2000 and November 2015. Additionally, we performed a manual search of articles and reference lists of published articles for additional references.

Results: Diabetes mellitus type 2 is emerging as a major health care problem in Nepal, with rising prevalence and its complications especially in urban populations. Several challenges in diabetes management were identified, including high cost of treatment, limited health care facilities, and lack of disease awareness among patients. No specific guideline was identified for the prevention and treatment of diabetes in Nepal.

Conclusions: We conclude that a comprehensive national effort is needed to stem the tide of the growing burden of diabetes mellitus type 2 and its complications in Nepal. The government should develop a comprehensive plan to tackle diabetes and other non-communicable diseases supported by appropriate health infrastructure and funding.

Keywords: Nepal; costs; diabetes complications; diabetes mellitus type 2; health care; low-income country.

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Conflict of interest statement

and funding All the authors declare no conflict of interest and there was no funding study. The authors received no direct funding. This review forms a part of the research work towards a PhD degree (BG) at Aarhus University funded by university scholarships.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Flow chart of the study selection process.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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