Prevalence of Diabetes in a Semi-Urban Community in Northern Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health problem both in developing and developed nations. The prevalence of diabetes globally is projected to rise from 2.8in 2000 to 4.4in 2030.This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of diabetes in Dakace village; near Zaria Method: This study was part of a larger study to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors among adults in Dakace village; near Zaria. Out of a total of 492 eligible respondents for the study; a subsample of 199 persons was recruited using a systematic sampling technique had their fasting blood glucose levels determined. Body mass indices of the participants were also determined. Results: A total of 199 subjects (94 males and 105 females) participated in this segment of the study. Three subjects had fasting blood glucose (FBG) of more than 7.0mmol/L; one participant a previously known diabetic on medication had a good glycaemic control. The overall prevalence of diabetes was 2.0.Five participants (2.5) had impaired fasting glucose (IFG). Among the diabetics; one was overweight (BMI= 27.43Kg/m2) and one was obese (BMI=31.55Kg/m2); while among those with impaired fasting glucose two were overweight. Fortythree subjects (21.6) were overweight and 15 (7.5) were obese. Conclusion: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in this semi-urban community is keeping with what had been reported earlier from across the country