More than 11 million Nigerians are living with diabetes, a figure that continues to rise due to unhealthy lifestyles and late diagnosis.
This was highlighted by Prof. Zubairu Iliyasu of the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital during the 14th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Association of Clinical Endocrinologists of Nigeria, ACEN, held Thursday in Kano.
Addressing participants at the conference themed “Endocrinology and Public Health”, Iliyasu stressed the need for intensified public sensitisation campaigns.
He warned that the number of undiagnosed diabetes cases remains alarming and urged Nigerians to adopt preventive health practices, including improved nutrition and physical activity.
The conference brought together endocrinologists, public health experts, and government representatives from across the country to deliberate on the increasing burden of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases, NCDs,.
Chairman of the occasion, Professor Emeritus Musa Borodo, described the rising cost of healthcare in Nigeria as a barrier to effective disease management.
He called for strategic interventions that would make care more accessible and reduce the strain on public health infrastructure.
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Dr Williams Balogun, President of ACEN, reiterated the association’s dedication to combating NCDs through evidence-based strategies.
He emphasised the importance of investing in research and community outreach programs to address the growing epidemic.
“This meeting will unveil a variety of ideas and research aimed at ensuring that the challenges of diabetes and obesity are thoroughly addressed,” Balogun noted.
Declaring the event open, Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran, commended the timing of the conference.
He assured participants of the state government’s support in the fight against diabetes and obesity, pledging collaborative efforts with medical bodies to improve public health outcomes.
Participants expressed optimism that the conference would lead to practical resolutions and innovations that can significantly reduce the impact of diabetes and related health issues nationwide.
NAN
