Diabetes crisis: Over six million people suffer as healthcare costs soar in Nigeria

Over six million Nigerians living with diabetes are facing a life-threatening situation as healthcare costs continue to rise sharply, making it nearly impossible for many to afford the necessary treatment.

On Tuesday, November 14, 2024, the Diabetes Association of Nigeria (DAN) sounded the alarm about the growing health crisis. The association revealed that between 30,000 to 40,000 Nigerians die from diabetes each year, largely because they cannot afford the basic care needed to manage the disease.

Dr. Ejiofor Ugwu, the National President of DAN, said in a statement marking World Diabetes Day, “About 6-8 million Nigerians are living with diabetes. This is just the tip of the iceberg, as two-thirds of diabetes cases in Nigeria are still undiagnosed due to a lack of routine screening.”

The situation is made worse by the ongoing economic hardship in the country, worsened by the removal of fuel subsidies and the foreign exchange crisis. Prices for diabetes medications, such as insulin, have skyrocketed, putting them out of reach for many patients. For those living with the disease, managing their health has become increasingly difficult.

‘I’m just waiting for death’ – Patient struggles with rising healthcare costs

One patient, Mrs. Maria (name changed), shared her heartbreaking story with Daily Post. She has lived with diabetes for several years but said her condition has worsened since May 2024. “I can no longer afford insulin or maintain the proper diet,” she explained. “The cost of insulin has increased by nearly 400%. A vial that used to cost N4,000 is now N18,000.”

Maria, a civil servant, said that despite her monthly salary, she can no longer afford the necessary treatment. She expressed deep concern for those without stable jobs or those in rural areas, where healthcare is even less accessible. “How do you avoid foods high in carbohydrates when everything is so expensive?” she asked. “The situation is terrible. People are eating what they can get, not what they need. If garri is all you have, you have no choice but to eat it, even though it’s harmful for someone with diabetes.”

She ended her statement by saying, “I can’t do more than my power. When it’s my time to go, God will receive me, and I’m just waiting for that time.”

‘I lost my leg after I stopped medication’ – Another patient’s struggle

Mr. Andrew Onah, another diabetic patient, shared his painful experience of losing his leg due to the high cost of diabetes care. In 2020, Onah was diagnosed with diabetes and managed it well. But by September 2022, he could no longer afford his treatment. He developed a foot ulcer after injuring his leg in December 2022, which eventually led to amputation.

“Diabetes is one of the worst things that can happen to anyone,” Onah said. “You have to give up so much—foods you love, drinks, and even your health. If you can’t afford treatment, even a small injury can become life-threatening. I know people with money who manage it well, but for ordinary people like me, there is no help.”

‘Consider leaving Nigeria’ – Medical expert warns of worsening crisis

Dr. Festus Ihongbe Odia, Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), expressed deep concern over the situation. He urged diabetic patients to consider leaving Nigeria, stating that the government has shown little interest in addressing the healthcare crisis.

“Diabetic patients are dying,” Dr. Odia said. “The insulin that used to cost N750 now costs N24,000. How can people afford that? We believe that if patients leave Nigeria for countries where treatments are subsidized, they might survive. It’s a matter of life and death.”

Calls for government action

Dr. Ugwu of the Diabetes Association of Nigeria called for urgent government intervention. He urged the Nigerian government to subsidize diabetes medications and provide tax breaks for the importation of diabetes-related supplies to make them more affordable. He also stressed the need for a national survey on non-communicable diseases to better guide healthcare policy.

“Without urgent action, the situation will only worsen, and more lives will be lost,” Dr. Ugwu warned.

As the cost of healthcare continues to rise, millions of Nigerians battling diabetes are left with little hope. Many are calling on the government to step in and provide affordable healthcare options for those who cannot afford the rising costs. Without immediate support, it is feared that more lives will be lost in the fight against diabetes.