The poor glycaemic control in our study cohort is similar to that reported from other SSA studies, which have reported mean HbA1c greater than 10%.4,5,11 Factors that account for the poor glycaemic control include the onset of puberty and its attendant hormonal changes (elevated levels of growth hormone, catecholamines, cortisol), reduced parental guidance, oppositional behaviour, poor dietary habits, poor self-monitoring of blood glucose and issues related to insulin use.4,25 Hyperglycaemia is a well-recognised risk factor for diabetes-related complications. The gene discussed is GH1; the disease is diabetes mellitus.