Paediatric endocrinology and diabetes mapping and services in Nigeria: A decade after

Purpose: Paediatric endocrinology services are relatively new in Africa and Nigeria and the services and resources for the children with diabetes and other endocrine disorders are poorly de-veloped. We aimed to survey pediatric endocrinology services in Nigeria using an online survey tool. Methods: We surveyed the paediatric endocrinologists practicing in public tertiary institutions in Nigeria using an instrument designed to evaluate the availability of manpower, infrastructures, specific medications, and collaborations with other endo crinologists. Results: Fifteen of the 37 practicing paediatric endocrinologists responded, giving a response rate of h a response rate of 40.5%. The mean practice years was 9.3 (range 7-12), and many had skills in managing children with diabetes, thyroid and growth abnormalities. All centres had facilities for ultrasound scan and simple diagnostic techniques but few centres had access to iodine uptake studies, antibody testing and special hormones. While most centres could outsource special tests, patients could rarely afford the services. There were 297 children on manage ment for TIDM and over 90% of these were on pre-mix insulin. Conclusion: The dearth in human and infrastructural capacity in paediatric endocrinology services should be improved on and this will alleviate the burden of diabetes and endocrine disorders in Nigerian children. means the test can be outsourced in a peripheral laboratory not attached to the home center of the paediatric endocrinologist.