Many won’t get diagnosed until complications arise—why is diabetes so overlooked, and what’s stopping people from getting the care they need?
The Undiagnosed Millions
In the heart of Nigeria, a silent crisis is unfolding. Over 3 million people were diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in 2021, and just as many are likely living with the condition without knowing it. These aren’t just statistics—they’re lives affected by mounting medical bills, missed diagnoses, and health facilities struggling to keep up with rising demand. Across rural communities and major cities, a similar story plays out. Urbanization, shifts in diet and lifestyle, and uneven access to health services have combined into a growing public health emergency.
Right now, only about 60% of Nigerians have access to primary healthcare services. For many, basic screening or early intervention remains out of reach. As diabetes rates rise, the pressure on clinics, hospitals, and already overstretched health workers continues to build. Still, even within these tough conditions, there’s. . .
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