By: Jennifer Nerkie Kenney
A public health physician specialist at the 37 Military Hospital, Dr. Ewura Adjoa Animah Ninoo, has expressed concern about the increasing number of diabetes cases in Ghana. She made the remarks on the GTV Breakfast Show on Thursday, November 12, 2025, as part of efforts to raise awareness about non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Ninoo said diabetes has become one of the fastest-rising health conditions in the country, largely due to changing lifestyles and poor dietary habits among both the young and old.
“Currently, the prevalence of diabetes in Ghana is about seven to eight percent, but it keeps increasing by the day,” she stated. “This is why platforms like this are so important to create awareness and encourage lifestyle changes.”
She explained that diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body either fails to produce insulin or cannot properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that helps transfer glucose from the blood into the cells to provide energy.
“Basically, diabetes means having too much sugar in the blood,” Dr. Ninoo said. “The insulin that should help move that sugar into the cells is either not produced or not working effectively, leaving the body starved of energy even though there is excess sugar.”
According to her, there are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes, she noted, is mostly genetic and affects younger people, while Type 2 is largely caused by unhealthy lifestyles such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity.
“Type 1 diabetes is usually found among younger people and is genetic,” she explained. “Type 2, on the other hand, is common in adults, especially those in their 30s and 40s, and is often linked to lifestyle choices.”
Dr. Ninoo emphasized that diabetes is a lifelong condition that cannot be cured but can be managed with medication, healthy eating, and regular medical checkups. She urged patients to remain consistent with their treatment plans to avoid severe complications.
“Diabetes never goes away; it’s a chronic disease,” she said. “You have to keep taking your medication and go for regular checkups. When people stop taking their drugs, they risk kidney failure, liver problems, or even amputations.”
She added that treatment varies depending on the type of diabetes. Type 1 patients rely mainly on insulin injections, while Type 2 patients are often managed with oral medications or a combination of both.
“For Type 1 patients, we give insulin injections because their bodies do not produce insulin,” Dr. Ninoo explained. “Type 2 patients usually take oral medication, but in severe cases, they may also need insulin injections.”
The physician also advised families to support diabetic relatives emotionally and physically, as managing the condition requires discipline and encouragement.
“Taking medicine every day can be tiring,” she said. “That’s why family support is key to help patients stay motivated and compliant with their treatment.”
Dr. Ninoo concluded by urging Ghanaians to check their blood sugar regularly, eat balanced meals, exercise often, and avoid self-medication. She noted that diabetes care is available in hospitals nationwide, and early detection can save lives.
“Everyone should take their health seriously,” she advised. “Early testing and lifestyle modification can make a huge difference in preventing or managing diabetes effectively.”
