Mulago Doctors Link Rise in Throat Cancer, Diabetes to Risky Youth Behaviors

Doctors at Mulago National Referral Hospital have raised concern over a growing number of throat cancer and diabetes cases, particularly among young patients.In a health update released this week, medics at the facility cited excessive shisha smoking, poor dietary habits, and increasing engagement in risky oral sexual practices as major contributors to the surge in throat-related illnesses.

“Many young people are unknowingly exposing themselves to long-term health complications through lifestyle choices that seem harmless in the short term,” one of the attending physicians explained.

Medical staff also pointed to sugary diets, physical inactivity, and late-stage diagnosis as compounding factors behind the spike in diabetes cases.

The hospital is now urging Ugandans especially youth to adopt healthier habits, including quitting shisha, eating balanced meals, and seeking regular medical check-ups.

The warning comes amid broader public health campaigns to address non-communicable diseases that are straining the country’s healthcare system.

Officials say early intervention and behavior change remain the most effective strategies for prevention