Foundation seeks awareness on Cushing’s Syndrome
By Fortune Abang
The Aisha Adamu Fari Foundation has emphasised the need for increased investment in raising awareness about early detection and treatment of Cushing’s Syndrome to contain the disease.
The Foundation’s CEO, Ms Aisha Fari, said this during the inaugural ‘Walk Against Cushing’s Syndrome’, organised with support from ASPI, ABVIG and other partners in Abuja.
Fari, a public health expert and Cushing’s Syndrome survivor, urged the Federal Government to prioritise research into diagnosing rare diseases such as Cushing’s Syndrome to deepen understanding.
She described Cushing’s Syndrome as a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, often due to medication, tumours, or chronic emotional stress.
According to her, few people are aware of Cushing’s Syndrome, hence the importance of promoting early detection and prevention across the country.
Fari said, “Poor awareness makes diagnosis difficult, as advocacy is limited and even doctors frequently misdiagnose the condition.
“There’s a need to support individuals with Cushing’s Syndrome and other rare diseases. People are suffering in silence. We need government backing in research and treatment.”
She recounted her experience, stating a misdiagnosis caused life-threatening symptoms and emotional strain in managing the unfamiliar condition.
Fari highlighted symptoms such as high blood pressure, dizziness, and weakness, adding that loud sounds triggered anxiety and affected her mental wellbeing.
In a separate interview, Fari’s mother, Mrs Safiya Koko, said treating the illness was financially challenging for the family.
She explained the family turned to online research to identify and understand Cushing’s Syndrome, as most doctors were unfamiliar with the condition.
“We relied on internet searches because doctors couldn’t diagnose it, until we eventually met an endocrinologist who helped us understand the situation,” she said.
She appealed to the government to increase awareness of this rare disease, which many — including doctors — find difficult to diagnose.
“We need government support to ensure this disease becomes well-known, not only in Nigeria but internationally,” she added.
She also recommended a strict diet rich in protein, magnesium, and calcium as part of managing Cushing’s Syndrome. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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