A growing number of Nigerian children are developing diabetes as unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, and genetic factors continue to increase their risk of the disease, a medical expert has warned.
Diabetes, a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, has long been associated with adults. However, health professionals say the disease is becoming increasingly common among children and adolescents, raising concerns about its long-term impact on public health.
Speaking on the trend, paediatric endocrinologist Dr Oluwakemi Ashubu said many parents remain unaware that children can develop diabetes, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment in many cases.
According to her, changing lifestyles marked by excessive consumption of sugary and highly processed foods, coupled with reduced physical activity, are contributing significantly to the rise in childhood diabetes.
“Many people still believe diabetes is strictly an adult condition, but children are also affected. The growing prevalence of unhealthy diets and sedentary behaviour is increasing the risk among younger age groups,” she said.
Understanding Childhood Diabetes
Medical experts identify several forms of diabetes that can affect children, with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes being the most common.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in little or no insulin production. Insulin is essential for regulating blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes, which was once considered rare among children, is becoming more prevalent. It develops when the body’s cells become resistant to insulin or when the body fails to produce enough insulin to meet its needs.
Health experts attribute the increase in Type 2 diabetes among children largely to obesity, poor dietary habits, inadequate physical activity, and family history.
Other less common forms include Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY), an inherited condition caused by genetic mutations, and neonatal diabetes, which develops within the first six months of life.
Symptoms Parents Should Watch For
Medical professionals urge parents to be alert to early warning signs of diabetes, as timely diagnosis can help prevent serious complications.
Common symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unusual fatigue, and unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased food intake.
Experts note that children who were previously toilet-trained may suddenly begin bedwetting again, while persistent tiredness can affect concentration, school performance, and daily activities.
Serious Health Risks
If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to both immediate and long-term health complications.
Short-term complications include dangerously high blood sugar levels, known as hyperglycaemia, and extremely low blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycaemia. Both conditions can become medical emergencies and may lead to unconsciousness if not promptly addressed.
Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can damage vital organs and body systems. Potential complications include vision problems, kidney disease, nerve damage, cardiovascular conditions, stroke, and poor blood circulation, which in severe cases may result in limb amputation.
Call for Greater Awareness
Health professionals are calling for increased awareness among parents, schools, and caregivers to help identify symptoms early and encourage healthier lifestyles among children.
They recommend balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods, regular physical activity, routine medical check-ups, and reduced consumption of sugary drinks and processed snacks as key measures for preventing Type 2 diabetes and promoting overall child health.
Experts emphasise that early detection and proper management remain critical to helping children with diabetes live healthy and productive lives.
