Diabetes should be checked on a regular basis: Expert

Dr. Nasir Sanni, a Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist, encouraged Nigerians on Monday to develop the practise of frequent medical checkups to prevent diabetes.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Sanni is a doctor at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH).

The physician, who provided the suggestion in an interview with newsmen in Ilorin, added that it will assist to curb the country’s growing diabetes cases, particularly Type 2 diabetes.

“It is critical for everyone over the age of 45 to get at least a yearly medical check-up to assess their blood sugar level.”

“Those with a diabetic parent should begin frequent medical checks as a requirement, even at a young age,” he stated.

He went on to say that individuals should not wait for signs of the illness, or any other, to appear before getting routine medical tests.

According to him, having regular medical checks will prevent many people from suffering avoidable medical disorders.

The doctor added that Type 1 diabetes was still unpreventable because it was inherited, however Type 2 diabetes was usually caused by bad eating habits and could thus be easily controlled.

He voiced worry about the growing number of individuals who are now suffering from diabetes, emphasising that early identification was still the most effective way of beating the disease.

Sanni urged university employees and students, particularly those at risk of the illness, to avoid sedentary lives and engage in regular physical activity.

He encouraged taking regular walks as one of the finest ways to exercise and stay fit.

To combat diabetes, the expert also recommended members of the campus community to eat moderately and avoid unhealthy diets.

The doctor also suggested that heavy meals, particularly those high in carbohydrates, be avoided or limited to the bare minimum, while urging the consumption of fruits and vegetables.

He also counselled avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use in order to avoid several health concerns.

The specialist stated that the two practises were not only harmful to one’s health, but were also means of getting diabetes.