Healthcare Concern: The High Rate of Diabetes in Southeastern Nigeria
Mwende Wairimu G.
School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda
ABSTRACT
Diabetes mellitus is an escalating public health crisis globally, and its impact is profoundly felt in Southeastern Nigeria, where the prevalence of diabetes stands at approximately 24%, significantly higher than both national and global averages. This review examines the epidemiology, risk factors, health impacts, and management challenges associated with diabetes in this region. Key contributors to the high diabetes rates in Southeastern Nigeria include genetic predispositions, rapid urbanization, lifestyle changes, and socioeconomic disparities. The health implications of diabetes are severe, encompassing complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease, which lead to a diminished quality of life and increased mortality. Challenges in managing diabetes are compounded by inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to specialized care, and cultural factors influencing treatment adherence. Effective strategies for diabetes management in Southeastern Nigeria require comprehensive public health interventions, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and culturally tailored educational programs. Future research should focus on filling gaps in epidemiological data, understanding rural healthcare barriers, and evaluating the effectiveness of targeted interventions. A collaborative approach involving government, healthcare providers, and communities is crucial for mitigating the diabetes burden and improving health outcomes in the region.
Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, Southeastern Nigeria, epidemiology, risk factors, healthcare challenges, public health interventions.
CITE AS: Mwende Wairimu G. (2024). Healthcare Concern: The High Rate of Diabetes in Southeastern Nigeria. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 4(2):61-66. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2024/426166