The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) recently conducted a comprehensive research study across Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America, revealing a startling statistic for Nigeria.
According to the findings, more than 80 percent of individuals diagnosed with diabetes in Nigeria only become aware of their condition after experiencing complications.
The survey delved into the awareness levels and impact of diabetes-related complications among people with diabetes. In Nigeria, a staggering 94 percent of those surveyed reported facing one or more complications during their diabetes journey.
The complications associated with diabetes, including heart and kidney damage, as well as issues with eyes and feet, were found to pose serious threats to health, with some complications proving to be life-threatening.
The study shed light on the significant stress endured by individuals living with diabetes, with 55 percent of respondents in Nigeria expressing daily concerns about developing complications.
Osarenkhoe Chima-Nwogwugw, a survivor of Type 2 diabetes, emphasized the urgent need for enhanced diabetes awareness and education. Chima-Nwogwugw stated, “To change this, more needs to be done to improve diabetes awareness and provide education to support the early detection and management of complications.”
The research also uncovered a concerning trend, indicating that over 50 percent of individuals with Type 2 diabetes in some countries, including Nigeria, remain undiagnosed due to the silent development of the condition.
Among Nigerian respondents, common complications reported included depression (55 percent), eye problems (40 percent), foot issues (40 percent), and oral health concerns (40 percent).
Chima-Nwogwugw concluded by highlighting the profound impact of diabetes and its complications on day-to-day life, particularly for those without access to the right support, and emphasized the potential life-threatening nature of these complications.
In response to these findings, the IDF is calling for increased efforts to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and resources needed for early diagnosis and optimal support for individuals living with diabetes. The organization remains committed to
In the perpetual struggle against diabetes and its consequential complications, a multifaceted approach is imperative, encompassing the augmentation of awareness, facilitation of comprehensive understanding regarding individual risk factors, and the optimization of accessibility to the most advanced and effective care modalities.
This concerted effort seeks to empower individuals with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health, while concurrently striving to dismantle barriers that impede access to optimal healthcare resources.
By fostering a culture of heightened awareness, education, and enhanced healthcare availability, we aim to fortify the collective resolve in the ongoing battle against diabetes and its intricate web of associated challenges.
