Top 10 Diseases We Commonly See in Young Men in Lagos Clinics
Young men in Lagos live fast-paced, high‑pressure lives. Between work stress, traffic, nightlife, gym culture, substance use, and inconsistent healthcare habits, certain health conditions show up again and again in clinics. At Mascot Healthcare, these are the top 10 conditions we commonly diagnose in young men, and what you should know about them.
1. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs remain one of the most common reasons young men visit clinics in Lagos.
Common examples:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- HIV
Typical symptoms:
- Penile discharge
- Burning during urination
- Testicular pain
- Genital sores (sometimes painless)
Why this is common:
Multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and delayed testing.
Key message: Early testing and treatment prevent complications and transmission.
2. Peptic Ulcer Disease
Ulcers are no longer an “old person’s disease.” We see them frequently in young men.
Triggers include:
- Excessive painkiller (NSAID) use
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Stress
- H. pylori infection
Symptoms:
- Burning upper abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Pain worse when hungry or at night
3. Malaria
Despite awareness, malaria remains extremely common.
Why young men are affected:
- Poor use of insecticide‑treated nets
- Outdoor night activities
- Delayed treatment
Symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Weakness
Early testing prevents severe disease and lost workdays.
4. Genital Warts
Caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts are common but often ignored.
Features:
- Small, flesh‑colored or cauliflower‑like growths
- Usually painless
- Can increase in number if untreated
Important note: Some HPV strains are linked to cancers. Early treatment and vaccination matter.
5. Skin Rashes and Fungal Infections
Skin problems are very common in Lagos’ hot and humid climate.
Common types:
- Fungal infections (ringworm, jock itch)
- Allergic rashes
- Bacterial skin infections
Risk factors:
- Excessive sweating
- Tight clothing
- Gym use without proper hygiene
6. Anxiety Induced by Substance Use
We are seeing a rise in anxiety disorders linked to substance use, especially among young men.
Common triggers:
- Cannabis
- Tramadol
- Alcohol
- Energy drinks and stimulants
Symptoms:
- Palpitations
- Chest tightness
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Fear of dying
Many patients mistake this for heart disease.
7. Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver is increasingly diagnosed in young men — even those who look fit.
Causes:
- Alcohol use
- Poor diet
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
Often silent, but detected on ultrasound.
Untreated fatty liver can progress to liver damage.
8. Minor Injuries
Young men frequently present with minor injuries.
Examples:
- Sports injuries
- Road traffic accidents
- Workplace injuries
Even minor injuries need proper assessment to avoid long‑term problems.
9. Early‑Onset Hypertension
High blood pressure is no longer rare in young men.
Contributors:
- Stress
- Excess salt intake
- Alcohol and smoking
- Obesity
- Family history
Often asymptomatic, making regular checks essential.
10. Gastroenteritis (Food‑Related Illness)
Food poisoning and gastroenteritis are common due to:
- Street food exposure
- Poor food storage
- Contaminated water
Symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
Prompt treatment prevents dehydration and complications.
Final Word
Young men often delay seeking care, but early medical attention saves time, money, and long‑term health. Routine checkups, safe lifestyle choices, and prompt treatment make a huge difference.
At Mascot Healthcare, we provide confidential, judgment‑free care tailored to young men’s health needs.