Endocrinologists push for tech solutions to bridge diabetes care gap

The Acting President of the Endocrine and Metabolism Society of Nigeria, Prof. Andrew Uloko, has highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and innovative solutions to enhance access to quality healthcare for the estimated 11 million Nigerians living with diabetes.

During a press conference at the opening of a three-day endocrinology conference in Abeokuta, Prof. Uloko noted that Nigeria has fewer than 200 endocrinologists available to address the increasing demands of patients suffering from diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity, and other endocrine-related conditions.

Speaking on the theme “Diabetes and Technology,” he remarked, “As technology becomes more integral to our lives, especially in healthcare, we must explore how advancements like artificial intelligence and robotics can help us improve care for endocrine diseases, which are a significant part of non-communicable diseases.”

Uloko expressed optimism that the conference would enhance awareness of available technologies that could aid in diabetes management and encourage policymakers to embrace reforms for better healthcare delivery.

He pointed out the alarming shortage of endocrinologists, many of whom are seeking opportunities abroad, further complicating the situation. However, he believes that technology could mitigate the impact of this shortage, often referred to as the ‘Japa syndrome,’ which describes the trend of professionals migrating for better prospects.

“For endocrinologists, whose numbers are critically low even on a global scale, we have around 200 serving Nigeria’s vast population, with many leaving. This is a pressing issue. Yet, technology allows patients to send their health data to doctors worldwide, enabling timely consultations and advice,” he explained.

Dr. Tomi Coker, the Commissioner for Health, emphasized that adopting technology is essential for enhancing healthcare quality in Nigeria. She expressed hope that the conference would yield recommendations tailored to Nigeria’s unique circumstances, particularly as over 80 million Nigerians face multidimensional poverty.

Dr. Coker noted that the conference’s focus aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s goal of digitizing healthcare services to alleviate the challenges of healthcare delivery.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Olubiyi Adesina, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, mentioned that the conference is expected to attract around 200 delegates, including endocrinologists, pathologists, family physicians, and nutritionists, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing in the field.