Introduction

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Diabetes is a global health concern, affecting millions of lives. In Africa, Nigeria stands out as one of the countries grappling with this silent epidemic. In this blog post, we will delve into the lesser-discussed aspects of diabetes in Nigeria.

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1. Prevalence and Projections

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• As of 2021, approximately 24 million people in Nigeria live with diabetes.
• By 2045, this number is projected to soar by 129%, reaching 55 million.
• Nigeria's diabetes prevalence rate is 3.7% among adults.
• Shockingly, over 54% of people with diabetes in Nigeria remain undiagnosed.

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2. Type 1 Diabetes in Children

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• Between 2011 and 2021, Nigeria witnessed a five-fold rise in type 1 diabetes cases among children and teenagers below 19 years.
• Early detection and management are crucial to prevent complications.

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3. Economic Burden

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• Diabetes imposes an economic burden on Nigeria, with healthcare expenditure associated with drugs, diagnosis, medical supplies, and consultations.
• In 2021, Nigeria's diabetes-related expenditure was US$ 13 billion, accounting for 1% of global spending.

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4. Lifestyle Factors

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• Urbanization, unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, and tobacco use contribute to rising diabetes rates in Nigeria.
• Addressing lifestyle factors is essential for prevention.

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5. Challenges and Solutions

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• Only 36% of Nigerian public hospitals have essential medicines for chronic diseases like diabetes.
• Advocacy, education, and improved healthcare infrastructure are critical.

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Also Read: African Women: 7 Signs You're Getting Closer to Menopause and What to Do

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Conclusion

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Nigeria faces a diabetes crisis that demands urgent attention. By raising awareness, promoting early diagnosis, and investing in healthcare, we can combat this silent killer.

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Remember, knowledge is power. Let's spread awareness and empower Nigerians to take charge of their health.

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Are you a woman in Nigeria battling with diabetes or experiencing early symptoms? Talk to Debbo Africa. We’re a team of women-only medical doctors and are poised to give you the best healthcare possible.

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Sources:

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1. [IDF Diabetes Atlas 2021](https://diabetesatlas.org/data/en/country/145/ng.html)

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2. [WHO Analytical Fact Sheet](https://files.aho.afro.who.int/afahobckpcontainer/production/files/iAHO_Diabetes_Regional_Factsheet.pdf)

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3. [WHO News: African Region Tops World in Undiagnosed Diabetes](https://www.afro.who.int/news/african-region-tops-world-undiagnosed-diabetes-who-analysis)

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4. African region tops world in undiagnosed diabetes: WHO analysis. https://www.afro.who.int/news/african-region-tops-world-undiagnosed-diabetes-who-analysis.

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5. Diabetes in Africa 2021. https://diabetesatlas.org/idfawp/resource-files/2022/01/IDF-Atlas-Factsheet-2021_AFR.pdf.

6. Analytical Fact Sheet - World Health Organization. https://files.aho.afro.who.int/afahobckpcontainer/production/files/iAHO_Diabetes_Regional_Factsheet.pdf.

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7. Debbo Africa: https:///www.debbo.africa

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