Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder, silently affects millions of lives worldwide. In Nigeria, the prevalence of diabetes has steadily increased over the years. While much has been written about diabetes, this comprehensive guide specifically addresses diabetes in Nigerian women.

Let's dive into the unique challenges and explore lesser-known aspects of diabetes management in Nigerian women.

‍

What is Diabetes?

‍

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by the body's inability to produce required amounts of insulin - the hormone that regulates blood sugar - or to efficiently use the insulin it produces, according to the World Health Organisation. These are called type 1 and type 2 diabetes respectively.

‍

What are the Numbers Saying?

• Nigeria is home to approximately 96.8 million adults.
• The prevalence of diabetes in Nigerian adults stands at 3.7%.

‍

Regional Variations

‍

Diabetes prevalence varies across Nigeria's geopolitical zones:

• North-West: 3.0%
• North-East: 5.9%
• North-Central: 3.8%
• South-West: 5.5%
• South-East: 4.6%
• South-South (highest): 9.8%.

‍

Source: National Library of Medicine.

‍

Risk Factors

‍

Several factors contribute to diabetes risk among Nigerian women:

• Family History: A family history of diabetes increases the risk.
• Urban Dwelling: Urban areas show higher prevalence due to lifestyle changes (like addiction to junk and sugary food).
• Unhealthy Diets: Poor dietary habits play a significant role (junk and sugary food addiction).
• Cigarette Smoking: A lesser-known risk factor.
• Advanced Age: Older women face higher susceptibility.
• Physical Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute.
• Obesity: A growing concern among Nigerian women.

‍

Challenges and Solutions

‍

Shockingly, 54% of people with diabetes in Nigeria remain undiagnosed. Early detection through regular screenings is crucial.

‍

Actionable Strategies to Tackle Diabetes in Nigerian Women

Let's explore some actionable strategies to tackle diabetes in Nigerian women:

• Embrace community: Connect with other Nigerian women with diabetes. Facebook groups or local support groups can provide invaluable emotional support, recipe swaps, and a sense of belonging. You can also join the Debbo Tribe or book a virtual consultation with our team of doctors.
  

• Embrace traditional wisdom: Many Nigerian plants have been used for centuries for blood sugar control. However, consult a doctor before incorporating them into your regimen to avoid interactions with medications.
  

• Embrace healthy eating: Nigerian cuisine boasts a vibrant array of vegetables and spices. Explore healthier versions of traditional dishes by using lean protein sources, reducing added fats, and incorporating vegetables into stews and soups.
  

• Embrace physical activity: Physical activity is crucial, but it shouldn't feel like a chore. Find activities you enjoy – dancing to Afrobeats at home, brisk walking with a friend, or joining a women's mindfulness or fitness class.
  

• Seek medical assistance. Consult a medical health professional to properly guide and assist you tackle diabetes. Your chances of beating the epidemic is high with proper medical counseling.

‍

Diabetes is not just a medical issue; it's a societal challenge. Reach out to Debbo Africa if you are a woman living with diabetes or feeling early symtoms. Also reach out if you are battling with an illness other than diabetes. We are a team of women-only medical doctors and are poised to give you the best healthcare possible. Let's work together to combat this silent epidemic.

‍

Sources:

‍

1. [International Diabetes Federation (IDF)](https://idf.org/our-network/regions-and-members/africa/members/nigeria/)

2. [Prevalence and Risk Factors for Diabetes Mellitus in Nigeria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13300-018-0441-1)

3. Nigeria - International Diabetes Federation. https://idf.org/our-network/regions-and-members/africa/members/nigeria/.

4. Nigeria diabetes report 2000 — 2045. https://diabetesatlas.org/data/en/country/145/ng.html.

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

6. Does Nigeria have most people with diabetes? sub-Saharan Africa- Africa .... https://africacheck.org/fact-checks/reports/does-nigeria-have-most-people-diabetes-sub-saharan-africa.

7. Diabetes Mellitus :A looming epidemic in Nigeria (2021). https://hopealivehealthcare.org/diabetes-mellitus/.

8. Debbo Africa (https://www.debbo.africa)