Diabetes Care in Nigeria: Gaps and Way Forward
Summary: Nigeria’s 5M diabetics face high DFU rates (15%), with gaps in screening, offloading, and care leading to 50% amputations from untreated neuropathy/infections. Case of a woman’s barefoot-worsened ulcer highlights risks; experts advocate MDT (podiatrists, surgeons), community education, and affordable insoles to cut incidence 40%. With 3M undiagnosed, the article calls for policy reforms and training to bridge rural-urban divides.
Key Highlights:
- Stats: 5M diabetics; 15% DFU risk; 50% amputations from delays.
- Gaps: Poor screening (30% annual checks); barefoot walking worsens ulcers.
- Solutions: MDT care; insoles/offloading; education for self-checks.
- Case: Woman’s ulcer deepened barefoot, saved by late intervention.
- Impact: 40% reduction possible with policy; targets 3M undiagnosed.
Keywords: diabetes Nigeria, DFU gaps, amputations, MDT care, screening