Nigerian endocrinologists have asserted that diabetes, which is often perceived as a fatal diagnosis, does not necessarily need to be seen as a death sentence. They argue that while the disease is a chronic illness that needs to be managed throughout one’s life, it is not always fatal. Healthcare professionals have been striving to change public opinion and educate the populace on proper Diabetes management in recent years in order to improve the quality of life for people diagnosed with the condition.
Endocrinology specialists recommend that early detection, regular blood sugar checks, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication compliance are the keys to managing the condition. People with diabetes can live normal, productive lives if their condition is properly managed. Perception of diabetes has changed over the years as a result of treatment improvements and increased knowledge of the condition. In scientific terms, diabetes develops when the body either cannot use the insulin it does make efficiently or cannot produce enough of it.
Access to education, and lifestyle modifications are top priority.
Both Type 1 and Type 2 of the condition require a careful approach to blood sugar control in order to prevent consequences such as heart failure, nerve damage, and heart disease. Receiving a diabetes diagnosis might be frightening for many Nigerians at first. But life after diagnosis can be greatly enhanced with the correct interventions. Abuja-based diabetic specialist Dr. Chike Ukaegbu stressed the value of education, emphasizing that patients need to be aware that having the condition does not mean definite death. They can manage their blood sugar levels and prevent complications with the right lifestyle changes, such as food modifications, consistent exercise, and prompt medication.
However, diabetic patients in Nigeria, about 3,623,500 total cases in adults, face unique challenges in managing their condition. Many patients still lack the financial means to purchase necessary diabetes drugs, such as insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents, and a sizable portion of the population still lacks adequate access to healthcare services. Notwithstanding these challenges, some patients have resorted to local health programs, support groups, and smartphone apps that offer information and direction on managing the disease. Experts in the field stress that access to reasonably priced treatment, education, and lifestyle modifications are the main priorities for managing the condition.
Shifting the perspective of patients is critical.
They urge Nigerians to adopt healthier diets and engage in more physical activity, and push for greater public knowledge regarding diabetes prevention. The risk of Type 2 diabetes, which is mostly prevalent in the country, can be considerably decreased by implementing physical exercise into daily routines, avoiding sugary drinks, and adopting healthy eating habits. Additionally, they emphasize the significance of routine medical examinations and monitoring in order to identify the illness early. The likelihood of successfully controlling the condition and avoiding complications increases with early diagnosis. For people with a family history of diabetes in particular, routine blood sugar checks and examinations are crucial.
Changing the perspective of patients is indeed critical in managing the condition effectively, especially in countries like Nigeria where the condition is becoming more prevalent. A patient’s capacity to manage the illness and preserve a high standard of living can be greatly enhanced by changing their perspective from one of hopelessness and fear to one of Empowerment and proactive management. This change in perspective can also lessen anxiety and encourage people to take a more active role in their own health care choices. Adopting healthy behaviors becomes possible for many people when they realize that the condition does not imply the end of a normal life.
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Moreover, experts noted that addressing the disease’s social and emotional stigma and related fear is equally crucial as its medical therapy. Patients, healthcare providers, and groups like the Nigeria Diabetes Association are working together to improve outcomes for people with the disease and shift the perception of the disease. By providing patients with knowledge, tools, and support, medical professionals can contribute to changing the lingering adverse perception. For millions of Nigerians with the condition, this change is essential to improve their quality of life.