Mr. Emmanuel Adeyinka
Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood sugar, which can lead to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves over time, according to the World Health Organization. Managing diabetes can be challenging for many, but for Mr. Emmanuel Adeyinka, an 87-year-old who has lived with the disease for nearly 50 years, it is not only manageable but also straightforward with the right approach. Lara Adejoro reports.
Despite common beliefs that diabetes shortens life expectancy due to complications like kidney failure, heart attack, and stroke, Mr. Adeyinka’s experience proves otherwise. He emphasizes that a long life with diabetes is achievable through a positive attitude towards diet and strict adherence to medication. Diagnosed almost 50 years ago, he has shown remarkable determination in managing his condition.
“It will be 50 years by January 2022 since I’ve been living with diabetes,” he shared.
Mr. Adeyinka’s diagnosis came after he felt unwell following a trip where he consumed wine. Upon his return to Ibadan, he visited a hospital and was diagnosed with diabetes. Despite limited knowledge about the disease at the time, he resolved to live a healthy and long life, inspired by the longevity of his family members who also had diabetes.
“The condition is hereditary. My mother had it and lived for 100 years. My maternal grandfather and my mother’s brother both had it and lived for over 100 years. So, I was determined to live long with the condition,” he said.
As the Vice Chairman of the Diabetes Association of Nigeria in the South West region and Oyo State, Mr. Adeyinka credits his tight blood sugar control to following his doctor’s prescriptions and maintaining a healthy diet. He stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups and consistent medication.
“After my diagnosis, I was placed on drugs immediately and I go for regular medical check-ups. I take my medications regularly,” he said.
His resilience and consistency have been key to his longevity. “Diabetes does not kill; you can live as long as God permits if you are willing to do what is required of you without giving up,” he asserted.
Mr. Adeyinka shared practical dietary advice for diabetics, advocating for moderation in food intake and avoidance of sugary foods and drinks. He emphasized the importance of compliance with medical advice and regular exercise.
“My secrets are simple: I am grateful to God for creating and keeping me. The second secret is to be obedient by complying with the instructions of my physician and the third is to comply with medical prescriptions,” he said.
The World Health Organization highlights that type 2 diabetes, the most common type, usually occurs in adults when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin. Type 1 diabetes, a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin, is also noted.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, an estimated 24 million people in Africa are currently living with diabetes, with this number expected to rise to 55 million by 2045.
The WHO stresses the importance of early diagnosis and access to affordable treatment for managing diabetes. Cost-effective interventions, such as blood glucose control through diet, physical activity, and medication, can significantly improve patient outcomes.
Mr. Adeyinka, now an educator for diabetes and high blood pressure, urges the government to increase awareness and support for diabetes patients.
“We need more awareness in churches, mosques, and public places. People are still ignorant about diabetes, and this ignorance is leading to deaths,” he said.
Professor Olufemi Fasanmade, an endocrinologist at the University of Lagos, notes that there are about 5 million people with diabetes in Nigeria, with the number expected to double in the next two decades.
“Every year, the number keeps increasing and Africa has the highest risk of diabetes because our population is getting older, poverty is increasing and people are getting fatter. From all the projections, we will be having double that number in the next 20 years; we will be having 10-20 million people with diabetes,” he warned.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Adeyinka’s story is a testament to the possibility of living a long and healthy life with diabetes through determination, proper management, and adherence to medical advice.