by Olanipekun Barakat
Health experts have raised concerns regarding the rapid growth of diabetes among children in Nigeria.
A specialist from Federal Medical Center, Keffi, Mrs Bashirat Raji explained that diabetes occurs when blood sugar is high, identifying three main types: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Royal FM correspondent Olanipekun Barakat, Mrs Raji identified the main causes of diabetes in children as genetic factors, environmental factors, poor diet, unhealthy lifestyle, lack of physical activities, and poor sleep in children.
“Children that already have this diabetes in their system can get angry at anytime at any moment. They call them angry birds, always cranky. You see them bedwetting and whenever they have injury on their body, it doesn’t heal on time. They are always hungry and eating awhole lot of food,” the specialist stated.
Going further, the specialist noted that the effect of diabetes can lead to severe health conditions which include heart disease, high blood pressure, and even stroke later in life.
To manage and prevent diabetes, Mrs Raji advised parents and guardians to prioritize healthy lifestyles for their children. This includes maintaining healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activities, and adopting a balanced diet for their children.
”Parents should prioritise whole food, vegetables, grains which are rich in fiber. They should prioritise their good sleep and encourage regular check ups,” she said.
The specialist also urge parents to educate their children about diabetes and the risks involved.
”Parents should be a good role model to their kids and maintain healthy lifestyle.”
