Prevalence and factors associated with prediabetes and diabetes mellitus among adults: Baseline findings of PURE Malaysia cohort study

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a silent killer that is responsible for almost 1.6 million deaths annually, particularly among those who are undiagnosed during its early stage. Prediabetes has become a growing public health concern due to its potential to progress to DM. This study thus aimed to determine the prevalence of prediabetes and DM and their associated factors among Malaysian adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults 35–70 years of age residing in rural and urban areas in Malaysia. Blood samples (finger prick test) and physical examinations were conducted on 4982 participants who consented to participate in this study. A pre-validated questionnaire consisting of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and medical history was used to assess physical activity level and family history of DM, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to identify the factors associated with prediabetes and DM. Results: The prevalence of prediabetes and DM were 10.8% and 11.9%, respectively. Participants who were ≥50 years old, male, Malay, or physically inactive or had hypertension or a family history of DM had higher odds of having prediabetes and DM. Unique to DM, individuals with a lower educational level were more likely to have DM. Conclusions: Prediabetes health screening is critical in the Malaysian population. Early detection of prediabetes promotes early intervention, including lifestyle modifications, to prevent progression to DM. The factors associated with prediabetes and DM identified in this study will assist in disease prevention and facilitate more efficient management strategies in this population.

Keywords

• Prediabetes
• Diabetes mellitus
• Physical activity
• Obese
• Comorbidity