Developing countries

There is still a widespread misconception that non-communicable diseases such as diabetes are not relevant to poor people in developing countries. For these people, medicines for the treatment of such conditions are regarded almost as a luxury. Scientific evidence testifies to the contrary. Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes are escalating in developing countries. This is giving rise to severe economic as well as human consequences. An effective public health strategy for poor countries requires continued access to low-cost, high-quality generic medicines.

Editor-in-chief's editorial

For a family in a developing country, having a child diagnosed with diabetes can bring an overwhelming financial burden, and often ends in heartbreak. The IDF Child Sponsorship Programme, Life for a child with diabetes was established to help meet the medical needs of children with diabetes in developing countries, their families, and those who care for them. The Programme provides support to children's diabetes centres in developing countries, so that best practice care for that country can be provided to children from even the poorest situations.

President's editorial

Ethiopia is a mountainous and beautiful country. The capital city, Addis Abba, is about 2500 m (8000 ft) above sea level. Around 85% of the people are farmers who live in circular thatched huts called tukuls. These are grouped into small villages which are often remote and inaccessible. While unpaved roads link the main centres, many areas can be reached only by footpaths. Road transport is either by bus or taxi, both relatively expensive; or by mule or on foot, which are laborious and slow.