What is Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus, commonly called diabe
tes, is a chronic condition that occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar (glucose) — which is a key source of energy for the body.
If left unmanaged, high blood sugar can damage major organs, including the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves.
Types of Diabetes
There are three major types of diabetes:
¶. Type 1 Diabetes:
Usually develops early in life
Caused by the body’s immune system attacking insulin-producing cells
People with Type 1 must take insulin daily
¶. Type 2 Diabetes (most common):
Mostly lifestyle-related
Often preventable with healthy habits
Affects adults but now increasingly seen in young people
¶. Gestational Diabetes:
Occurs during pregnancy
Increases risk of developing Type 2 later in life
🔎 Why Diabetes Awareness Matters in Nigeria?
According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF):
Over 11 million Nigerians are living with diabetes
Many are undiagnosed until serious complications appear
Also, poor access to health education and regular screening increases risk.
Diabetes can affect anyone — regardless of age or income. But the risk increases with:
¶ Poor diet (high sugar and processed foods)
¶ Sedentary lifestyle
¶ Obesity
¶ Smoking and alcohol abuse
¶ Family history of diabetes
⚠️ Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Many people ignore early signs until it’s too late. Look out for:
¶ Excessive thirst
¶ Frequent urination (especially at night)
¶ Unexplained weight loss
¶ Fatigue or weakness
¶ Blurred vision
¶ Slow healing of wounds
¶ Tingling in hands or feet
How to Prevent or Manage Diabetes
Whether you’re living with diabetes or trying to avoid it, here’s what you can do:
~ Eat a balanced diet: more vegetables, less sugar, whole grains, lean protein
~ Exercise regularly: at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily
~ Avoid tobacco and reduce alcohol intake
~ Check your blood sugar (especially if you’re over 40 or at risk)
~ Take prescribed medication and follow up with your healthcare provider
~ Join a support group or diabetes care network
Living with Diabetes? It’s Possible
Many Nigerians are living full, healthy lives with diabetes by managing their condition with the right knowledge and support.
At Isonye Foundation, we believe everyone deserves access to inclusive health education, screening, and care, regardless of income or ability.
📣 Our Call to Action
We urge you to:
• Know your blood sugar status
• Share this information with someone you care about
• Push for more accessible health care and regular screening in every local government
• Support community awareness events
Final Word
Diabetes is not a death sentence. With the right lifestyle, education, and support, you can live well — and even prevent it entirely.
Let’s work together to build a Nigeria where health is for all, and no condition is allowed to rob us of our future.
#Diabetes2025 #DiabetesAwarenessNigeria #IsonyeFoundation #InclusiveHealth #HealthEducation #LivingWithDiabetes #KnowYourStatus #NigeriaForAll #PreventionIsBetter #PublicHealthMatters
