Many people dismiss the signs. That nagging tiredness. A thirst that feels unreasonable. The pins-and-needles sensation that comes and goes. Even the small cut that refuses to heal. Most convince themselves it is stress or poor sleep, but the body is often sounding an alarm long before the diagnosis.
According to Dr Uzodinma Umeh, Chief Medical Officer at Zuri Health, these seemingly ordinary symptoms can signal the early stages of diabetes. He explains that:
“Diabetes is a condition where the body fails to regulate blood sugar effectively, an imbalance that slowly injures the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and feet, making life unbearable.”
He stresses that the disease is common, but also manageable when detected early.
Dr Uzodinma (Uzo’) Umeh -Chief Medical Officer, Zuri Health
When Symptoms Are Brushed Aside
The early signs rarely command attention. Many people dismiss constant thirst, frequent urination or unexplained tiredness as the ordinary result of stress or long workdays. Dr Umeh notes that others only realise something is wrong when their vision blurs or small wounds refuse to heal. He explains that a surprising number of patients learn of their diagnosis during a routine health check or after fainting.
In his words, “The early signs are easy to miss because they vary between individuals.”
Why Cases Are Rising
The increase in diabetes cases reflects the realities of modern living. Kenyan cities have grown rapidly, bringing lifestyle patterns that encourage processed foods, busy deskbound days and fewer opportunities for physical activity. Dr Umeh observes that these shifts have created a perfect storm for higher risk, explaining that urbanisation, changing diets, low physical activity and rising obesity are now major drivers. He adds that there is low health awareness as many don’t go for check-ups until complications appear.
The Lifestyle Equation
Diet, movement and stress shape the body in ways many underestimate. Dr Umeh describes them as the ‘triad of diabetes.’ He explains that diets high in refined carbohydrates force the body to produce large amounts of insulin, a demand that eventually leads to resistance in which sugar remains dangerously high.
He also highlights the role of exercise, stating that “physical activity makes the body more sensitive to insulin and helps keep weight within healthy ranges.” Stress, he adds, releases hormones that push blood sugar higher, worsening long-term outcomes.
Myths That Put Lives at Risk
Misinformation remains one of the largest barriers to proper management. Some believe diabetes only affects older adults, yet Dr Umeh regularly meets patients in their thirties. Others think sugar alone causes the condition, when it can be as a result of poor diet, weight and Family history.
He notes that, “Some patients stop taking their medication because they believe herbs will fix the problem,” a decision that exposes them to complications that could have been avoided.
Understanding Insulin Without Fear
Insulin is often viewed with suspicion, yet it remains one of the most important tools in diabetes care. Dr Umeh clarifies that insulin is simply a hormone the body needs and that treatment involves replacing what the body can no longer produce.
“Insulin is basically a hormone, so there is no reason to be afraid of it. We are simply replacing what is lacking in the body. It is actually used in diabetes, which is due to a lack of insulin production from damaged insulin-producing cells, or in emergencies when insulin levels are low.” He reiterates.
The Role of Family Support
A new diagnosis can unsettle an entire household. Families play an essential role in helping a loved one adjust. Dr Umeh emphasises the power of compassion, from avoiding blame to encouraging consistent medication use. He explains that loved ones can help by preparing healthy meals, joining walks or exercise sessions and keeping track of medical appointments. These efforts create an environment where management feels shared rather than isolating.
When Diabetes Is Ignored
Unmanaged diabetes affects the body in multiple ways. Poor wound healing, kidney damage, eye complications such as cataracts or optic nerve damage, peripheral nerve damage in the extremities (hand and feet) and an increased risk of stroke are among the dangers.
Dr Umeh advises individuals to monitor their sugar levels regularly, take medication as prescribed, eat healthier meals, inspect their feet daily for injuries and prioritise adequate sleep. These habits, he explains, protect against complications that escalate silently.
Protecting Children and Adolescents
Parents should remain alert to early signs in younger individuals. Excessive thirst, sudden weight loss, unusual tiredness, frequent infections and mood changes can signal early-onset diabetes. Dr Umeh insists that timely recognition gives children the best chance at long-term health.
ALSO READ: Is your teen eating well?
When Family History Raises the Stakes
Individuals with a family history of diabetes require structured prevention. Dr Umeh stresses the importance of picking up healthy lifestyle habits from an early age. Additionally, he recommends annual blood sugar checks and awareness of key health numbers such as Body Mass Index (BMI), blood pressure, sleep duration and daily activity levels.
“Eat healthy and cut out sugary and processed foods, replacing them with vegetables, grains, and lean proteins. Sleep well for at least 6-8 hours everyday to manage stress.” He notes.
Community-Level Action
Beyond individual effort, national and community involvement is essential. Dr Umeh calls for more community screening programmes to support early detection. He also encourages healthier school meals and policies that discourage excessive consumption of processed foods. Community-led exercise groups and recreational spaces can further support healthier living.
Diabetes demands vigilance, but it does not take away the possibility of a full life. Dr Umeh reminds the public that “diabetes is not a death sentence and people can live wonderful lives when they manage it well.” He encourages annual testing, early action and lifestyle choices that protect health in the long run.
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