Policy Implications and Recommendations for Integrated Diabetes Care in Nigeria: Strengthening Healthcare Systems to Address Growing Diabetes Burden

Diabetes has emerged as a significant public health concern in Nigeria, contributing to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the country. This review explores the policy implications and presents recommendations for strengthening integrated diabetes care in Nigeria, addressing the challenges posed by a healthcare system traditionally focused on infectious diseases. The rising prevalence of diabetes in Nigeria is driven by urbanization, lifestyle changes, and limited awareness of preventive healthcare, leading to inadequate management of the disease. The review critically examines the current policy landscape, highlighting gaps in diabetes-specific healthcare strategies and emphasizing the need for integration of diabetes care within primary healthcare (PHC) systems. The potential benefits of such integration are discussed, including improved accessibility, resource optimization, and enhanced patient outcomes. The review further explores key policy recommendations such as the development of a national diabetes policy, strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare providers, leveraging digital health tools, and implementing public health campaigns. Additionally, the review outlines challenges to policy implementation, including resource limitations, workforce shortages, and cultural barriers. The integration of diabetes care into PHC is seen as a vital strategy for improving care continuity and addressing the socioeconomic burden of diabetes in Nigeria. The review concludes with a call for multi-sectoral collaboration and comprehensive public health strategies to combat the diabetes epidemic, ensuring better health outcomes and a more resilient healthcare system. Keywords: Integrated diabetes care, Nigeria healthcare system, Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Diabetes management