Sierra Leone is DAC-1 and ranks 183/188 on UNDP HDI and is hence among the poorest countries worldwide. The country has a fragile health care system, which was even further challenges by the Ebola epidemic. According to WHO, Sierra Leone has among the highest rates worldwide concerning maternal mortality and perinatal complications. There is no data on HIP in Sierra Leone but in the Africa Region there is an estimated percentage of 10.5% HIP. ObjectivesTo promote the awareness, screening and care of hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) in Sierra Leone.
In order to improve care for pregnant women with HIP, the project will introduce universal screening for HIP and referral mechanism for detected cases at Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) in Freetown. PCMH has a catchment area of more than 1,346,771 and the expected deliveries are about 59,258 per year, around 4,4% of population. To improve the quality of care capacity building will be provided to PCMH staff and staff of surrounding primary/secondary ante-natal care facilities and provision of basic equipment and screening material will be provided. Roll out of 12-month post-partum care of mother and child, incl at primary and secondary level, and through linkages with vaccination and education services will enhance the follow up of women suffered from HIP and their babies. The development of a dedicated a patient record and data collection system at PCHM will assist in quantifying the burden of the disease. In order to enhance HIP care and streamline access to care across Sierra Leone, the project will support the Ministry of Health and the Directorate of Research and NCDs to develop national guidelines on hyperglycemia in pregnancy through the evidence and practice generated at PCMH using an operational research approach. In order to increase the awareness on HIP among women, the project will provide information, education and communication activities on the importance of HIP screening and on seeking appropriate care.
184 HCPs trained in GDM.PCMH and 17 Peripheral Health Units (PHUs) implement HIP screening in Western Area of Sierra Leone.Protocol for Integrated Diabetes Screening developed and reviewed by the MoHS.18,527 pregnant women screened for HIP and provided improved ante-natal care.344 pregnant women detected with HIP and referred for post-partum follow up.76,447 women reached with information on GDM and related services through awareness raising campaigns.First data on GDM in Sierra Leone collected.Operational research article written (yet to be published).