Prevalence and Determinants of Diabetes in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Abstract

Background: Diabetes is a major public health challenge in Saudi Arabia, with rising prevalence and significant associated complications. The increasing burden of diabetes in the region necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its prevalence, determinants, and the effectiveness of public health strategies. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of diabetes using online assessment tools.

Methodology: A cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing online surveys to collect data from adults across various regions of Saudi Arabia. The survey included questions on demographics, diabetes status, lifestyle habits, and self-reported health outcomes. Data analysis involved logistic regression to identify risk factors and chi-square tests to explore associations between diabetes knowledge and management practices.

Results: The study found a diabetes prevalence of 27% among participants, with a higher prevalence in females (26%) compared to males (20%). Young adults (ages 18-35) showed a prevalence rate of 19%. Significant associations were observed between diabetes and lifestyle factors; smokers had a 30% higher likelihood of diabetes than non-smokers. Only 40% of respondents demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding diabetes management, which correlated negatively with effective disease control (p<0.05).

Conclusion: This study highlights the high prevalence of diabetes in Saudi Arabia, particularly among females and young adults. The regression analysis revealed significant predictors of diabetes diagnosis, including awareness of risk factors, physical activity levels, gender, and education level. The findings highlight the need for targeted educational and public health strategies to enhance diabetes awareness and promote healthier lifestyles. Further research is needed to evaluate the impact of these strategies on diabetes outcomes.