Abstract:

This Study aims to determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among patients attending selected General Hospitals in Niger State, Nigeria. The research is a cross-sectional descriptive study involving General Hospital Minna, General Hospital Suleja and General Hospital Sabon Wuse in Niger state. Trained research assistants helped with obtaining data from the files of patients living with diabetes. The study revealed distinct patterns and significant variations in diabetes prevalence rates, with the highest recorded in General Hospital Minna (1.13%) and the lowest recorded in General Hospital Suleja (0.41%). Pre-validated questionnaires were also used to obtain the demographics of 330 patients living with diabetes. The data was analysed using frequency, percentages and chi-square (χ²) tests. The results showed the prevalence of diabetes increased with age, socio-economic status and diet. No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of diabetes among smokers and non-smokers, with a p-value of .356. The study revealed that people living with T1DM and T2DM were predominantly between the ages of 41 to 60, they were mostly middle/lower class and non-smokers. High intake of carbohydrates and food devoid of vegetables and proteins should be avoided for a good quality of life and longevity. The study further revealed that consumption of beverages/food containing high sugar content posed a key risk factor for the development of T2DM. Therefore, the study recommends intensive effort by healthcare providers and stakeholders to facilitate efficient planning, a public enlightenment campaign, advocacy, and allocation of health resources for prevention and management of diabetes.

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