World Diabetes Day: Children also prone to diabetes, expert says

A medical expert, Mrs Shola Adeoye, says children are also prone to diabetes, contrary to general beliefs.

Adeoye told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Ilorin that it was erroneous that only adults and elderly were prone to be diabetic.

She said parents and caregivers should be more cautious of the ‘Type 1’ diabetes that affects children and adolescents.

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“There is a general belief that it is only adults that usually have diabetes, it is wrong.

“Children can also be diabetic (Type 1), and theirs is also very dangerous because it is not preventable according to the World Health Organisation.

“Parents should watch out for its symptoms which include frequent urination, thirst, weight loss and tiredness.

“When these symptoms are watched out for, it can be easily managed by taking daily insulin injections and controlling blood sugar level,” Adeoye said.

She also urged parents to help the diagnosed children by watching their diets.

Parents should be sympathetic about the condition especially newly diagnosed patients, the expert advised.

“Try not to buy them foods they should not be eating, for example, refined sugar and carbohydrates. Also, try to remind them to exercise regularly or join them to exercise,” Adeoye said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nov. 14 every year, is World Diabetes Day, and the theme of this year’s day is “The Family and Diabetes’’.