Kantha Bopha Hospital Discovers 698 Children with Diabetes: A Closer Look
Kantha Bopha Hospital, a cornerstone of pediatric healthcare in Cambodia, recently reported that 698 children across its branches in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have been diagnosed and treated for type 1 diabetes. This discovery has raised public concern, especially regarding the alarming number of young children, mostly aged between 4 and 14, with the highest rates among those between 10 and 14 years old. Out of the total, 309 cases were recorded in the hospital’s Siem Reap branch.
While the public may feel alarmed by this number, it is important to understand the context of these findings. According to Dr. Yay Channa, director of Jayavarman VII Hospital (Kantha Bopha Hospital, Siem Reap), this number reflects cases recorded since the hospital’s inception in 1992. He emphasized that these figures do not indicate a sudden spike, explaining that typically one or two new cases are identified each month.
Understanding Type 1 Diabetes in Children
Professor Khun Leang Chhun, the deputy director of Jayavarman VII Hospital, elaborated on the cause of type 1 diabetes, attributing it to the immune system’s destruction of the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Several factors may trigger this immune response, including viral infections such as rubella or certain genetic factors like Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) DR2, DR3, and DR4.
One key point to clarify is that type 1 diabetes in children is not caused by excessive sugar consumption. Once a child is diagnosed, the treatment typically involves insulin therapy, which helps manage the condition. Insulin, a hormone normally produced by the pancreas, becomes a necessary lifelong treatment for children with type 1 diabetes.
Parents and guardians are educated on how to properly care for their children, including how to test blood glucose levels and administer insulin injections. The hospital also provides medical supplies, such as insulin, free of charge, ensuring children can continue treatment at home.
Insulin injections vary depending on the type prescribed. Some children may require two daily injections—one in the morning and one in the evening—while others need four doses throughout the day. Blood sugar levels must be monitored closely to ensure proper management of the disease. If parents administer too much insulin, the child may experience serious health complications, including fainting.
The History and Impact of Kantha Bopha Hospital
Kantha Bopha Hospital has been a critical player in providing free healthcare to Cambodian children since its establishment in 1992. Founded by Dr. Beat Richner, a Swiss pediatrician, the hospital was established to address the dire need for pediatric medical services in Cambodia following the devastation of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Initially built in Phnom Penh, the hospital has since expanded to include multiple branches across Cambodia. Currently, there are five Kantha Bopha hospitals, three in Phnom Penh and two in Siem Reap, all dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare to Cambodian children without charge. The hospital receives significant financial support from donors, including contributions from the Cambodian government, foreign governments, and private individuals, making it possible to offer free medical care to thousands of children each year.
Over the years, Kantha Bopha Hospital has played an indispensable role in saving countless lives, particularly in areas like pediatric surgery, intensive care, and the treatment of infectious diseases. The discovery of nearly 700 cases of type 1 diabetes is just one example of the hospital’s commitment to identifying and addressing the healthcare needs of children across Cambodia.
A Wake-Up Call for Better Diabetes Management
In 2023, the hospital’s Facebook page shared the story of a 12-year-old girl who, after missing her appointments, suffered serious complications due to uncontrolled type 1 diabetes. The lack of regular treatment led to ulcers, kidney damage, and a severe health crisis. Fortunately, the emergency team at Kantha Bopha Hospital was able to revive her and stabilize her condition through intensive care, including multiple blood cleansing treatments.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of regular monitoring and consistent treatment for children with type 1 diabetes. Without proper care, the disease can quickly spiral into life-threatening complications.
Conclusion
Kantha Bopha Hospital’s discovery of 698 children with type 1 diabetes underscores the importance of early detection, consistent treatment, and parental education in managing this chronic condition. While the numbers may initially seem alarming, they represent the hospital’s long-standing commitment to pediatric care since 1992.
What are your thoughts on the increasing cases of diabetes in children? How do you think Cambodia can better address childhood diabetes? Share your opinions and ideas with us!