Egypt has introduced a new national healthcare initiative aimed at supporting children living with type 1 diabetes, as part of broader presidential public health programs focused on improving access to modern and integrated medical care.
The initiative was officially launched at Egypt Children’s Hospital, targeting young patients and their families by reducing the physical, emotional, and financial burden associated with managing the condition. It is fully funded through partnerships between the Ministry of Health and major institutions, including the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE), the National Bank of Egypt (NBE), the Commercial International Bank (CIB), and other healthcare funds.
According to Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, the program reflects a coordinated national effort to enhance pediatric healthcare services and ensure long-term sustainability through strong institutional support.
Egypt is currently home to approximately 55,000 children aged between one and 18 living with type 1 diabetes, highlighting the urgency of improving disease management and preventing complications. The initiative aims to address these challenges by focusing on early intervention, continuous monitoring, and comprehensive care.
A key feature of the program is the use of continuous glucose monitoring devices, which significantly reduce the need for traditional finger-prick tests. Children with diabetes can otherwise undergo thousands of such tests annually, creating both physical discomfort and psychological stress. By minimizing this burden, the initiative is expected to improve treatment adherence and overall quality of life.
The program also relies on strict eligibility criteria developed by a specialized scientific committee to ensure that services are delivered safely and effectively to those who need them most. In addition to medical devices, the initiative offers caregiver training, regular medical follow-ups, technical support, and essential laboratory testing.
Officials estimate that the initiative could reduce hospital admissions and emergency care costs by up to 30 percent, while also lowering the risk of serious complications such as diabetic retinopathy and kidney disease.
A pilot phase began on March 5 at Egypt Children’s Hospital, where 55 monitoring devices were installed. Plans are in place to expand the program to eight medical centers across the country by the end of the year, with a long-term goal of reaching all governorates.
The initiative is initially targeting children aged four to six, with around 5,000 beneficiaries expected over the next five years.
To further enhance care, a digital platform has been introduced, allowing doctors and parents to monitor glucose levels in real time. This system enables faster medical decisions, better follow-up, and improved disease management.
Overall, the initiative marks a significant step forward in Egypt’s healthcare system, combining technology, funding partnerships, and patient-centered care to support children living with type 1 diabetes.
