In today’s world, managing our health and well-being has become increasingly crucial, particularly as new ailments and diseases emerge. Recognizing the importance of this, the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp) recently organized a medical webinar titled “Managing Diabetes in Everyday Life,” in order to emphasize the significance of healthy living and health management.

The webinar aimed to provide pension industry professionals with comprehensive insights into diabetes, including its types, identification, causes, and management strategies.

Adaobi Okoye, PenOp’s Head of Human Resources, opened the session by underscoring the necessity of health management for optimal functioning both at work and in daily life.

Oguche Agudah, CEO of PenOp, further emphasized the importance of regular exercise and encouraged attendees to maximize the webinar’s opportunities. The online session garnered participation from over 200 pension industry professionals.

Facilitated by Dr. Akinkunmi Ilori, Group Head of Medical Operations at Bastion HMO and a renowned medical doctor and public health specialist, the webinar delved into the signs, symptoms, screening methods, treatment options, and prevention strategies for diabetes.

Dr. Akinkunmi explained that diabetes encompasses a group of diseases affecting how the body’s tissues utilize glucose, resulting in high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin response.

He discussed various types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, Gestational, and Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), along with their causes and management approaches such as oral medications, insulin injections, and lifestyle modifications.

Addressing risk factors such as age, ethnicity, family history, and obesity, Dr. Akinkunmi stressed the importance of dietary habits and regular physical activity in diabetes management. He also highlighted optimal blood sugar levels for diabetic individuals.

The webinar concluded with attendees gaining practical knowledge on diabetes screening, treatment options, and effective management and prevention strategies, empowering them to take proactive steps towards better health and well-being.

The webinar was part of PenOp’s ongoing monthly knowledge-sharing sessions. These sessions provide a platform for professionals in the pension industry to network, exchange ideas, and listen to subject matter experts discuss relevant topics.