NAIRAMETRICS
Every morning, 30-year-old Ejiro Paul checks on her aging parents, both of whom rely on daily monitoring to manage their diabetes and hypertension.
Last week, their blood sugar monitor malfunctioned, and their blood pressure cuff began to give erratic readings. Determined to ensure her parents’ health, Ejiro set out to replace these essential devices.
However, she was stunned to find that the cost of new monitors had skyrocketed since 2023, making it nearly impossible for her to afford the replacements.
In recent years, the prices of blood sugar and blood pressure monitors have surged by as much as 200%, leaving many individuals like Ejiro struggling with the financial burden of managing chronic health conditions.
Significance of blood pressure and sugar monitors
Blood sugar and blood pressure monitors are essential tools for individuals managing diabetes and hypertension, two of the most prevalent chronic conditions in Nigeria.
According to the World Health Organization, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of hypertension in Africa, with an estimated 31.2% of adults affected.
Similarly, the International Diabetes Federation reports that over five million Nigerians are living with diabetes.
Regular monitoring is crucial for these individuals to maintain their health, avoid complications, and reduce the risk of life-threatening events such as heart attacks and strokes.
These monitors enable users to track their health metrics accurately and make informed decisions about their diet, medication, and lifestyle.
Historical pricing
Before the significant price surge in recent years, blood sugar and blood pressure monitors were relatively affordable and accessible in Nigeria.
- In 2020, a basic blood sugar monitor typically cost between ₦9,000 and ₦15,000, while a standard blood pressure monitor ranged from ₦15,000 to ₦25,000.
- These prices allowed most individuals to manage their conditions without a substantial financial burden.
- However, starting in 2023, a confluence of factors began to drive up the costs. Significant scarcity, increased demand, inflation, and higher manufacturing expenses contributed to the steady rise in prices.
- By 2024, consumers noticed that the same devices had become significantly more expensive, with some models seeing price increases of up to 200%. This steep rise has made it challenging for many Nigerians to afford these crucial health monitoring tools, exacerbating the difficulties faced by those already struggling with chronic health conditions.
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