Type 2 Diabetes and Risk Factors in an Adult Population in Oujda, Eastern Morocco: A Cross-Sectional Observational...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Endocrinology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D), represents a significant global public health challenge.
• Lifestyle modifications are essential for preventing or delaying T2D onset and its associated complications.
• Understanding local prevalence and risk factors is critical for targeted public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of T2D in Oujda, Morocco.
• To investigate the association between T2D and factors including obesity, physical activity, and sociodemographic characteristics.
• To inform public health strategies for diabetes prevention and management in the region.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in primary healthcare centers in Oujda.
• Data collection involved anthropometric measurements, blood glucose tests, and structured questionnaires, including the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).
• Statistical analysis examined the association of T2D with age, gender, education, occupation, obesity, and physical activity levels.

Main Results:

• The study included 510 patients, revealing a T2D prevalence of 16%.
• Obesity was highly prevalent, particularly among diabetic patients, with 46% of diabetics reporting low physical activity levels.
• Advanced age and obesity emerged as the primary factors significantly associated with T2D.

Conclusions:

• A high prevalence of both obesity and T2D was observed in the Oujda region.
• Recommendations emphasize balanced diets and regular physical activity for diabetes prevention.
• Targeted interventions and support for women with diabetes in Arab countries are essential for their active participation in prevention efforts.