The Prevalence of Prediabetes in a sample of apparently healthy Syrians

Abstract

Background: Prediabetes is considered as high-risk state for diabetes development and the occurrence of its chronic complications, especially cardiovascular ones. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of prediabetes in the Syrian society and investigate modifiable risk factors.

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 406 individuals from the Endocrinology clinic at Al-Mowasat University Hospital in 2021.

Inclusion criteria: apparently healthy at the age of ≥18 years of both sexes.

Exclusion criteria: Patients with diabetes, hypercortisolism, pregnant women, and anyone has a thyroid disorder or is taking any medication affects the level of glucose in the blood. Body measurements: weight, height and body mass index were measured for all study participants, and calibrate fasting glucose, total cholesterol, low density cholesterol and thyroid hormone, then the proportion of people with pre-diabetes was determined according to the criteria of the American Diabetes Association.

Results: The study showed that the prevalence of pre-diabetes was 22.4%, and the most affected age group was between 38-47 years. The most common predisposing factors were advanced age, obesity, physical inactivity, positive family history of diabetes, and elevated total or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.

Conclusion: The rapid increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in comparison with previous years necessitates seeking to take preventive measures and develop health education programs for early detection of pre-diabetes and correcting modifiable risk factors.