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Main Article Content
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus risk factors among patients at three selected clinics in Windhoek, Namibia
Lynnete C. Mukonka
Ntombifikile G. Mtshali
Abstract
Background: Worldwide, there is an increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Identification of the most prevalent risk factors within different communities assists in taking measures to curb the projected rise in the prevalence of T2DM in the years to come.
Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of T2DM risk factors among patients at selected clinics in Windhoek, Namibia, in order to design data-driven preventive strategies.
Setting: The study was conducted at three clinics in Windhoek, Namibia.
Methods: This article uses data taken from a mixed-methods study aimed at developing a lifestyle modification programme for the prevention of T2DM, involving 673 participants. Out of these 673 participants, data from 634 non-diabetic respondents were used. A questionnaire was used to collect data, and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Diabetes risk test was also used to assess the risk levels among the non-diabetic participants. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data.
Results: The most prevalent factor was having a family history of hypertension (258; 42.3%), then history of T2DM (267; 39.7%) and age (223; 33.1%). Other factors identified were random blood glucose levels and waist circumference. Most of the respondents (481; 75.9%) had an overall low risk of developing T2DM, while 98 (15.5%) respondents had a high risk of developing T2DM.
Conclusion: Although the most prevalent factors were non-modifiable factors, the results of the ADA risk test indicate a combination of both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. There is a need for preventive strategies, and further research on cost-effective measures is also recommended.
Contribution: The study shows the need for T2DM preventive measures and further research.
