Prevalence and predictors of diabetes mellitus among adult population in delta central senatorial district of Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Context: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a growing global health priority with a rapidly increasing prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa.

Objective: This study evaluated the prevalence and predictors of DM among adults in the Delta Central Senatorial District of Delta State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A community-based, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 536 adults recruited via multistage sampling. Data on demographics and anthropometrics were collected using a structured proforma. Glycemic status was determined by measuring Random Blood Sugar (RBS) after an 8-hour fast using an ACCU-CHEK Advantage II glucometer, with classification (normoglycemic, pre-diabetes, and diabetes) based on WHO criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Linear regression analysis was used to determine predictors of DM, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 37.93±13.81 years, with a female preponderance (58.8%). The Urhobo ethnic group constituted 41% of the cohort. More than half of the participants (56.2%) were overweight. The prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes was 26.4% and 24.2%, respectively. Strong positive predictors of DM included family history (r=0.90, R2=0.81, p<0.05), Body Mass Index (r=0.89, R2=0.80, p<0.05), and sleep patterns (r=0.87, R2=0.76, p<0.05). Cigarette smoking was identified as a moderate predictor (r=0.77, R2=0.59, p<0.05).

Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes among adults in Delta Central Senatorial District. Modifiable factors such as BMI and sleep patterns, alongside non-modifiable family history, are significant drivers of the disease. Targeted interventions, including routine screening and lifestyle modification programs, are essential to mitigate the region’s growing diabetes burden.