By Halima Imam
In many Nigerian communities, myths around diabetes and hypertension still thrive. Some believe diabetes, or “sugar sickness,” is reserved for the wealthy, while hypertension is seen as nothing more than a consequence of worrying too much. These misconceptions have allowed these silent but deadly conditions to spread without restraint, putting millions of Nigerians at risk, rich or poor, young or old.
Dear Nigerians, if you continue to gather all the “urgent 2k” you’re begging for up and down just to buy junk food, soda, and that one shawarma that’s bigger than your destiny plans, only to sit in your room, blast “Problem No Dey Finish” from Boomplay while drinking a chilled bottle of sugar-laden drink, you need to hear this: diabetes is not far from you o, even if you’re more broke than Laila’s heart wey men dey break every weekend. Yes, you heard that right. Diabetes no dey check bank account before it lands. Hypertension no dey ask whether you get car or you dey ener along day and night round Abuja. These two silent enemies are on a serious rise in Nigeria, and they’re not waiting for only “big men” to show symptoms.
It’s time for a wake-up call. These diseases do not respect your bank balance, age, or social status. They are not just targeting “big men” driving hundreds of millions naira cars, nor are they problems of the elderly. They are real, they are dangerous, and they are here. Let’s dive deeper into the truth about diabetes and hypertension, so we can all take charge of our health.
The Reality of Diabetes and Hypertension in Nigeria
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 4 million Nigerians are living with diabetes, and 1 in 3 adults in the country suffers from high blood pressure. Yet most people discover these conditions only when it is too late, after experiencing a stroke, kidney failure, vision loss, or a sudden collapse.
Why does this happen? Often, Some Nigerians associate the symptoms of these conditions, like frequent urination, extreme thirst, headaches, or fatigue, with something else. A headache might be dismissed as a “spiritual attack,” while constant tiredness might be blamed on “stress.” But ignorance can be costly, and these diseases develop quietly over time, waiting to strike when you least expect it.
It’s not just about the wealthy; young people, students, market women, artisans, and even children are now vulnerable. Our eating habits, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of regular check-ups are making these diseases more common. That sugary soda you drink every day? The fried snacks you enjoy while stuck in Lagos traffic? Those late-night noodles soaked in oil and seasoning? No be enjoyment o. They could be leading you down a dangerous path.
Debunking Myths: These Are Not Mystical Diseases
Let’s debunk the most popular myths. Diabetes and hypertension are not curses or punishments from the ancestors. They are not illnesses brought in by oyibo (foreigners). They are largely lifestyle-related, which means that the choices you make every day can prevent, or invite, these conditions.
True, there are cases of genetic predisposition, but for the majority, your lifestyle determines your risk. So, next time someone says, “Na only rich man fit get diabetes,” kindly remind them that diabetes doesn’t ask for your bank statement before settling into your body.
Prevention Is Better, and Cheaper, Than Treatment
The good news? Prevention is possible. You don’t need millions of naira to live healthily; you just need a bit of wisdom, discipline, and action.
Here are five affordable ways to reduce your risk:
Eat Nutritionally Balanced Foods: Traditional Nigerian dishes like okra soup, moi moi, ugwu (pumpkin leaves), unripe plantains, millet, and beans are nutritional powerhouses. Minimize your intake of highly processed and sugar-laden foods.
Stay Active: You don’t need an expensive gym membership to exercise. Walking briskly, sweeping your compound, or dancing for 30 minutes daily can make a big difference.
Hydrate with Water: Water should be your best friend. It helps regulate your body and flush out toxins. On the other hand, sugary drinks silently harm your system.
Get Regular Health Checks: A simple blood pressure and blood sugar test once a year can detect issues early and save you from costly emergencies later. These tests are often less expensive than a night out.
Manage Stress Thoughtfully: Yes, stress can increase blood pressure, but this doesn’t mean hypertension is only caused by “thinking too much.” Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as prayer, meditation, deep breathing, or spending time with loved ones.
For Those Already Diagnosed
If you have diabetes or hypertension, know that you are not alone, and this is not a death sentence. Millions live full, productive lives by managing these conditions effectively. Here’s how you can take charge of your health:
Follow Your Treatment Plan: Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.
Eat Healthily: Reduce your intake of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
Exercise Safely: Engage in physical activities recommended by your doctor.
Monitor Your Health: Regularly check your blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
There’s no shame in asking for help or joining support groups. What’s dangerous is ignoring the condition.
Why This Matters to Every Nigerian
We’ve all heard heartbreaking stories, family members suddenly losing a parent, uncle, or sibling because of undiagnosed diabetes or high blood pressure. These losses are avoidable with awareness and early action.
The high prevalence of these diseases impacts not just individual families but also the economy and productivity of our nation. Imagine a healthier Nigeria, where people live longer, work harder, and spend less on preventable diseases.
A Call to Action
Let’s change the narrative. Let’s talk openly about diabetes and hypertension. Post about it. Discuss it in schools, churches, mosques, and markets. Let’s stop treating it as a “big man disease” or a punishment from above.
Take the first step today. Eat a little better. Walk a little more. Reduce the salt and sugar. Drink more water. And next time you sit down with family and friends, remind them that health is wealth.
So, before you order that third plate of jollof rice or drink another fizzy soda, think about this: Is this enjoyment or slow self-destruction? Choose wisely people, your life depends on it.
