Diabetes: Over 80% of sufferers in Nigeria unaware – Report
International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has disclosed that over 80 percent of individuals diagnosed with diabetes in Nigeria only become aware of their condition after experiencing complications.
The newly-released IDF research added further the huge of unaware diabetics in Nigeria could rise beyond 80 per cent if the trend continues.
The survey was conducted among people with diabetes across Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America to understand the level of awareness and impact of diabetes-related complications.
Out of those surveyed in Nigeria, 94 percent reported facing one or more complications during their diabetes journey.
According to the report, the complications associated with diabetes, ranging from heart and kidney damage to issues with eyes and feet, pose serious threats to health, with some complications proving to be life-threatening.
The study underscores the considerable stress placed on individuals living with diabetes, as 55 per cent of respondents in Nigeria express daily worries about developing complications.
Speaking, a Type 2 diabetes survivor, Osarenkhoe Chima-Nwogwugw, emphasised the urgent need for enhanced diabetes awareness and education.
“To change this, more needs to be done to improve diabetes awareness and provide education to support the early detection and management of complications.
“For those without access to the right support, diabetes and its complications can seriously impact day-to-day life and even become life-threatening.
“That is why the IDF is committed to improving awareness, helping people understand their risk, and enhancing access to the best available care,” she said.
The research also revealed that over 50 per cent of individuals with Type 2 diabetes in some countries, including Nigeria, remain undiagnosed due to the silent development of the condition.
Common complications reported among Nigerian respondents included depression (55 per cent), eye (40 per cent), foot (40 per cent), and oral health (40 per cent) problems.
IDF, therefore, called for increased efforts in equipping healthcare professionals with the knowledge and resources needed for early diagnosis and optimal support for individuals living with diabetes.
