Lois Otse Adams
The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Kaduna Chapter, under the leadership of Amb. (Dr.) Obinna Okpara, has joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Diabetes Day, to raise awareness in local communities about the dangers of diabetes and how to prevent it.
Every November 14 is set aside for global professionals to care for patients of diabetes and to raise awareness of the causes, dangers and its management worldwide.
The awareness event which will involve free tests, first aid drugs and a lecture will hold on Monday 14th November, at Kamazo Village, Kaduna South.
According to Okpara, Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a disease of hormonal insufficiency (insulin) leading to bodies inability to properly manage blood sugar/glucose.
He said there are three broad types: Type 1 (insulin-dependent), Type 2 (insulin-resistant), and Type 3 Gestational Diabetes (pregnancy-induced).
He further explained that lifestyle modifications play an important role in both the prevention and management of DM, adding that drugs and other interventions are options of last resort, hence the need for both education and access to health care.
Okpara noted that not all symptoms are easily identified and the need for at least twice a year testing is of great importance, especially for those who have a risk factor.
“DM is also a cause of hypertension, kidney disease, etc. But with education and access to care which we are embarking on today to commemorate world diabetes day, we will be able to control this emerging monster in our society,” he said.
According to him, modern lifestyle changes, like diet, sedentary (sitting in one place for an extended period), cigarettes and alcohol, late intake of foods and sleeping immediately after meals play a major role in the development of DM.
“We secured the services of a public health physician, Dr. Emmanuel Joseph, who will give a lecture after which we will commence the Fasting Blood Sugar Test and Glucose Screening test.
“Patients with critical issues will be referred to the national hospital while we give medications to minor cases,” he assured.
The NAS, a humanitarian service provider, identifies with the downtrodden who do not have the financial strength to check their health status and occasionally renders free medical services to them.
