Diabetes is a serious disease that can affect anyone, but studies show that people of African descent face a higher risk, particularly when it comes to type 2 diabetes. Even with this increased risk, YOU have the power to make better choices for your health. Let’s take a closer look.
The Numbers & Why
In Sub-Saharan Africa, diabetes is becoming more common and poses serious health risks. What’s more, African people are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes due to genetics and cultural diets high in carbohydrates. African populations also have unique genetic traits that could influence diabetes risk differently than in other populations. Managing diabetes here is tough too, because of limited access to proper care and anti-diabetes medication
Uniquely African
Diabetes in Africa isn’t just rising; it behaves differently than it does in other parts of the world. Here’s how:
1. Later onset of Type 1 Diabetes: Unlike in Western countries where type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood, people in Sub-Saharan Africa are often diagnosed much later, sometimes even into young adulthood.
2. Insulin Production vs. Insulin Resistance: In many African patients, the primary issue is that the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. This contrasts with Western cases, where the body usually becomes resistant to insulin.
3. City living: Urban living has a strong link to higher diabetes rates in Africa. As more people move to cities, diets often change to include more processed foods that are high in sugar, carbs and fat. City lifestyles also bring less movement and weight gain, both of which increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. This shift from rural to urban areas shows up in the numbers, with urban residents having 1.5 to 4 times the diabetes rates of their rural counterparts.
4. Leaner patients: In total contrast to the point 3, and unlike in Western countries, where diabetes is common among older, overweight adults, African people who are much leaner are also developing diabetes. This shift in body type adds new challenges for early detection and care.
5. Higher complication rates: In Sub-Saharan Africa, diabetes complications – like kidney disease, eye issues, and nerve damage – are reported at higher rates.
Conclusion
While diabetes may be more common among African people, remember that knowledge is power. By staying informed and making small changes, you can move toward a healthier future.
References
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/diabetes/understand-your-risk-for-diabetes
https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/diabetes-causes
https://files.aho.afro.who.int/afahobckpcontainer/production/files/iAHO_Diabetes_Regional_Factsheet.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9630207/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38410415/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11210798/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2291/
https://clindiabetesendo.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40842-019-0077-8
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5489055/
