A BIG Problem in Jordan

Around 30% of the people in Jordan have diabetes.  We have been involved in a diabetes testing program with LDS Charities for the past few months that has focused on diabetic retinopathy (vision problems caused by diabetes).  The program was started by another couple who has now gone home and we are now the new directors of this massive country-wide project.

We've spent a lot of time praying, working and trying to learn about diabetic retinopathy.  The more we get into it the more we realize that a comprehensive approach to the bigger problem of diabetes would be the right way to go.  We are considering helping local health districts that already have diabetes programs in place, so as Lynn says, "we're not here to make their program...we're here to help them make their program better."  We can help them fill in the gaps in what they already have--not start something new.

Our experience with measles immunization has taught us that it's always good to see what the local people are already doing before we march in with our western ideas, so on Tuesday we arranged a tour of the national diabetes center in Amman.  We were very impressed.  They have a state-of-the-art facility that treats half a million patients every year.  Everything is "up to standard."

We  asked them what should the local clinics be doing?  And the answer was one we expected--education at all levels, early testing, life-style change and quality control.