Biological screening, knowledge and management of diabetes mellitus in Obohia Ahiazu, Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Biological screening of diabetes mellitus was carried out to assess the prevalence of the disease in  Obohia Ahiazu, Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State. Glucometer (Accucheck) and Combi-9 strip  were used to check for the presence of glucose in blood and urine, respectively. Three hundred (300)  subjects were used for the study. Out of the 99 males 26(26.26%) and 54(26.87%) out of 201 females  had  pre-diabetes. Thirty nine (19.14%) females and 14(14.14%) were found to be diabetic. Females were more overweight than males. Urinalysis showed that 7(7.07%) of males and 18 (8.96%) were positive for the presence of glucose in urine. Result from the questionnaire indicated that out of the 268 respondents 71(26.47%) and 87(32.46%) believed that high consumption of sugar and starchy food were the cause of diabetes while 21(7.6%), 8(2.99%), 24(8.96%) and 42(15.67%) attributed diabetes to hereditary,  alcohol induced and no idea about the cause respectively. Symptoms associated with the disease include
frequent urination, excessive weakness, sexual dysfunction seventy seven persons (28.73%) believed  that adherence to diet could help in the management of the disease while 44(16.42%) had no idea of the management procedures. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death globally. There is therefore the  need for regular screening test of individuals especially those in the rural areas by government and  relevant agencies to diagnose the disease on time minimize or avert the risk of health complications and
effect treatment and management techniques. Also health education and public enlightenment of the  populace about the disease intensified.

Keywords: Biological Screening, Diabetes mellitus, Diabetes symptoms, Management techniques