Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: The prevalence of type 2 Diabetes is increasing worldwide. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, hence the need for early identification of risk factors. This study therefore aimed to determine the overall knowledge of the participants about Diabetes Mellitus and to assess its risk factors.

Method: A cross sectional survey of 118 staff of three secondary schools in Owo was conducted using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Weight, height, waist circumference, hip circumference, blood pressure and fasting or random blood sugar measurements were done using standard methods. Data was analysed with SPSS version 21.0. Descriptive statistics were done. Associations were explored with the chi square test and Pearson correlation at 5% level of significance.

Results: Mean age of participant is 43+8 years, 59.3% were female, 66.9% had a good knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus. In all, 13.6% smoke cigarette, 35.6% drink alcohol, 49.2% does not add at least a spoonful of vegetable to their meals, 27.1% does not engage in physical exercise while 78.0% do not eat fruits at least once a day. About 75% of the respondents had at least one risky behaviour. Type 2 DM was found in 2.8% of the participants, 18.5% were hypertensive, 22.0% were Obese while 25.4% had abdominal obesity. More male respondents 22.9% had self-perceived risk of DM (P=0.001), 40.0% of female respondents had abdominal obesity (P<0.001). Correlation (r=0.347) exist between Waist/Hip ratio and random blood sugar, (P=0.012).

Conclusion: Despite good knowledge of DM, many had at least one risky behaviour. Intensifying efforts on educating the general population on the risk factors for DM and lifestyle modification is important.