Abuja, Feb. 25, 2026 (NAN) A paediatrician, Dr Nkechi Nwibo, says Type 1 diabetes in children is linked to genetic susceptibility, particularly Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes, often triggered by viral infections or early exposure to cow’s milk.
Nwibo, a Senior Registrar at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to her, Type 2 diabetes in children is largely driven by obesity, sedentary lifestyle, maternal gestational diabetes and family history, with rising cases reported in rapidly urbanizing areas.
She noted that preventive measures such as exclusive breastfeeding and balanced diets could significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes among children.
On brain tumors, Nwibo said early warning signs in children included persistent morning headaches, unexplained vomiting, seizures and balance difficulties.
She added that subtle symptoms such as irritability, developmental delays and cranial nerve palsies, including eye movement abnormalities, should not be ignored by parents and caregivers.
The paediatrician explained that neuroimaging, particularly Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), is used to confirm diagnosis and stressed that prompt referral to a neurologist improved treatment outcomes. (NAN)
