Personalized Evidence, and Young Adults' Attitude and Behaviour Towards Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Preventive Lifestyle Measures

Abstract

Background: Behaviour change programmes have demonstrated diabetes risk-reduction benefits. Studies on diabetes preventive lifestyle activities largely focus on middle-aged/older adults. We investigated non-diabetic young adults’ risk of developing Type 2 diabetes mellitus, and their attitudes and behaviours towards preventive lifestyle activities. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study on non-diabetic, young adults living in Middle Eastern countries. Data was collected and analyzed electronically. Results: Mean diabetes risk score was ̄x = 2.8 (SD ± 1.3), and 92.6% demonstrated a low risk of developing diabetes. About 88.1% agreed on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle at a young age, and 92.9% thought a healthy lifestyle would help them to stay healthy. Weekly 38.0% and another 38.0% ate fruits and vegetables respectively on 2 to 3 days only. Additionally, 85.0% indicated that their work did not involve vigorous-intensity activity, 54.9% walked or used a bicycle for at least 10 minutes, and 74.2% did not do vigorous-intensity sports/fitness/recreational activities for at least 10 minutes continuously. There was a weak and negative correlation between age and diabetes risk score (r = -0.1), and BMI was positively correlated with diabetes risk score (r = 0.63). Discussion: The participants mostly demonstrated a low risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, were overweight on average, and did not meet the recommended lifestyle practices. The reported positive attitude towards preventive lifestyle measures did not correspond to their collective reported lifestyle behaviours/practices. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals need to focus on the practical (behavioural) aspects of healthy lifestyle modification educational activities for young adult patients.