An endocrinologist based in Bauchi, Dr Ayuba Mugana, has warned that smokers and individuals with cholesterol-related health conditions are at higher risk of developing diabetes.
Mugana disclosed this in an interview with reporters on Tuesday in Bauchi.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body converts food into energy. It occurs when blood sugar (glucose) levels become abnormally high, leading to various health complications.
Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger and unintended weight loss.
The endocrinologist explained that smoking disrupts insulin function and causes inflammation in the body.
“Insulin is a crucial hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and plays a vital role in energy metabolism by allowing cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy,” he said.
Mugana stressed that diabetes is not caused solely by heredity or high blood pressure.
“Smokers and people with cholesterol problems are also at significant risk of developing diabetes,” he added.
He also debunked common myths surrounding the consumption of local chickens compared to broiler chickens, particularly among people living with diabetes.
According to him, protein intake is important for diabetic patients, noting that broiler chickens often contain more fat due to their feed and restricted movement.
“Local chickens move freely and feed naturally, which makes them leaner. However, whether broilers are unhealthy largely depends on consumption patterns,” he explained.
Mugana advised individuals who prefer broiler chicken to reduce fat intake by removing the skin, where most of the fat is concentrated.
The endocrinologist further disclosed that recent data from health facilities indicated a growing number of diabetes cases among youths.
He therefore urged young people to adopt healthy lifestyles, noting that diabetes often takes between 10 and 15 years to manifest.
“Diabetes does not usually present early. It often begins with insulin resistance,” he said.
