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The National Action Plan on Sugar Reduction Coalition (NASR) is urging the government to raise taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, allocate diabetes desk officers in state health ministries, and eliminate tariffs on diabetes treatment goods. This plea was made during an exhibition held in Abuja to commemorate World Diabetes Day, themed "Know Your Risk, Know Your Response."
The coalition also
advocates for free diabetes screening in public facilities and suggests that
tax revenue should be directed toward subsidizing diabetes care in the country.
World Diabetes Day, observed on
November 14, aims to raise awareness about diabetes as a global public health
concern.
Dr. Mohammed Alkali, President
of the Diabetes Association of Nigeria, emphasized the urgent need for action
to prevent diabetes and ensure access to quality healthcare during his address
at the event. The panel session, moderated by Prof. Felicia Anumah, the director
of the Centre for Diabetes Studies at the University of Abuja Teaching
Hospital, highlighted the economic aspect, stating that "prevention is the
cheapest option" for the Nigerian economy.
Prof. Anumah pointed out that
due to increased medication inaccessibility, more diabetes complications are
looming, leading to additional health issues such as strokes, kidney failures,
and gangrenous limbs, ultimately resulting in more amputations. The coalition's
call aligns with a broader effort to address the rising challenges posed by
diabetes and advocate for preventive measures and accessible healthcare in the
nation.
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