Olufemi Fasanmade, a medicine professor at the University of Lagos, urged governments to eliminate barriers limiting diabetes treatment access in Nigeria.
He highlighted the economic hardships that make diabetes medications and supplies unaffordable for many.
Fasanmade, a consultant endocrinologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, called for prioritizing diabetes treatment alongside HIV and malaria. Furthermore, he recommended free community screenings and lowering the cost of diabetic medications to enhance access. He emphasized that early detection through routine screening leads to better disease management and improved treatment outcomes.
During a virtual media roundtable conference themed “Breaking the Barriers, Bridging the Gaps,” hosted by Novo Nordisk for World Diabetes Day 2024, Fasanmade discussed diabetes as a chronic condition caused by the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively.
Notably, World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, highlights the global health impact of diabetes and encourages improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa’s diabetes prevalence, fueled by urbanization, poor diets, and physical inactivity, may reach 54 million by 2045, marking the largest global increase. This alarming projection underscores the significant health and financial challenges faced by individuals with diabetes.
In addition, Fasanmade stressed the importance of early detection to prevent complications such as kidney failure, blindness, and heart disease. He highlighted the economic, social, and psychological toll diabetes imposes on individuals, families, and society. Moreover, he noted that limited access to medications and care in Nigeria hinders effective diabetes management, leaving many vulnerable to severe complications.
Furthermore, only 6% of diabetics in Nigeria achieve optimal treatment outcomes due to inadequate therapy access. Without urgent action, the number of diabetics in Nigeria could increase from three million to 7.9 million by 2045. Consequently, Fasanmade urged the government to expand National Health Insurance Authority coverage, strengthen primary healthcare systems, and improve rural diabetes care.
Finally, he commended the removal of taxes on imported medications and encouraged the media to raise public awareness and correct misconceptions about diabetes. He advised individuals to monitor their blood sugar, adopt healthy lifestyles, and avoid unapproved medications, which worsen complications and lead to serious consequences.
CREDIT:AllneedsTHEPUNCH
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