Diabetes and Research in Nigeria: Advancements and Opportunities
Discover the latest advancements and opportunities in diabetes research in Nigeria, from improving healthcare infrastructure to innovative treatments and education initiatives, learn how Nigeria is tackling the growing diabetes epidemic.
Nigeria is one of the countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) that are currently groaning under a rising prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM). A recent meta-analysis reported that approximately 5.8% (about 6 million) of adult Nigerians are living with DM. This figure has been likened to a tip of an iceberg as it is estimated that two-thirds of diabetes cases in Nigeria are yet undiagnosed. This scenario which applies to most low and middle-income countries of SSA has not only resulted in an increase in the burden of diabetes complications and deaths, but has also put a significant strain on the already weak health systems in this sub-region.
Objectives
The study aimed to evaluate diabetes care knowledge and practice among primary care physicians (PCPs) in Southeast Nigeria. It also sought to identify the challenges faced by PCPs in diabetes care and determine predictors of poor diabetes care knowledge.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study was conducted among PCPs in Southeastern Nigeria. Diabetes care knowledge and practices were evaluated using a structured self-administered questionnaire.
Results
A total of 64 PCPs with a mean duration of practice of 17.3 ± 11.6 years completed the study. The majority (78.1%) had not participated in any diabetes training since graduation from medical school, and 79.9% were not aware of any diabetes clinical practice guidelines. The PCPs had adequate knowledge of classical symptoms of diabetes, but they had very poor knowledge of glycemic thresholds for diagnosis of diabetes. Significant gaps were observed in diabetes care practice, with only 18.8% of respondents performing foot examinations on newly diagnosed persons living with diabetes (PLWD).
Diabetes care knowledge and practice were poor among PCPs in Southeast Nigeria. There is an urgent need to improve their capacity to provide diabetes care through periodic training. The study highlights the importance of continual medical education for PCPs to enhance their knowledge and practice in diabetes care.
