Nigeria Faces Diabetes Crisis Due to Lifestyle Changes and Late Detection

Nigeria is observing World Diabetes Day on November 14, a day dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes prevention, early detection, and care. Health experts are sounding the alarm about a growing diabetes crisis in the country, driven by lifestyle changes and late diagnosis.

Diabetes Mellitus is a serious health issue characterized by high blood sugar levels. This happens when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or the body cannot use insulin properly. The condition can lead to severe complications, including blindness, kidney failure, heart issues, strokes, and amputations.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, around 589 million adults worldwide have diabetes, with about 11 million of those in Nigeria. Many of these individuals are unaware of their condition. Experts say diabetes is now causing more deaths in Nigeria than malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis combined.

Professor Michael Olamoyegun, an endocrinologist, explains that diabetes can go undetected for years. He notes that the disease is more prevalent among older adults, particularly those with a family history of diabetes. He highlights three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes typically affects younger people and requires insulin injections for management. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for 90 to 95 percent of cases, is often linked to lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can pose risks for both the mother and child.

The number of people living with diabetes in Nigeria has increased significantly in recent years. Many individuals are diagnosed with diabetes in hospitals, often alongside other health complications. Alarmingly, diabetes is linked to high rates of amputations in Nigeria, with many amputations being major procedures.