Diabetes is increasing across Nigeria, with the South-South region, including Edo, recording one of the highest prevalence rates, a medical expert has said.
The Medical Director of Owen Hospital, Dr. Nosa Ehigie, raised the alarm on Thursday in an interview with reporters.
He warned that myths and delayed hospital visits were worsening health outcomes among patients.
According to him, diabetes is a chronic condition caused by high blood sugar resulting from problems with insulin production or the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.
He emphasized that the condition could be managed when detected early and treated appropriately, highlighting the importance of regular medical checks and prompt intervention.
Ehigie stated that about three million Nigerian adults are living with diabetes, citing estimates by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
He warned that the number could rise significantly in the coming years if stronger preventive measures and public awareness campaigns are not implemented.
The medical expert noted that the South-South region has a higher prevalence of diabetes due to increasing urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and changing dietary habits.
He explained that Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin treatment, while Type 2 diabetes is largely associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity.
Ehigie also identified gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy and requires proper monitoring to prevent complications.
He warned that untreated diabetes could lead to severe complications, including nerve damage, recurrent infections, poor blood circulation, and, in extreme cases, limb amputation.
The expert urged Nigerians to undergo regular screening, adopt healthier lifestyles, and avoid unverified herbal remedies, stressing that diabetes affects people across all social and economic groups, not only the wealthy.
