Assessment of Type 2 Diabetes Risk in the Population of Douala, Cameroon: An Analysis of 2,080 Cases

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is steadily increasing within the Cameroonian population due to the emergence of new risk factors. However, the lack of data on the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in this population may undermine the effectiveness of prevention and control strategies for this disease. This study aimed to assess the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the population of Douala. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study during diabetes awareness and screening activities for World Diabetes Day at the Douala General Hospital, Laquintinie Hospital, the Douala Gyneco-Obstetrics and Pediatric Hospital, and the Parcours-Vita in Douala. Sociodemographic data, diabetes diagnosis, and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (FINDRISC score) were collected using a survey form and analyzed with R software. Results: A total of 2,080 participants were included. Their mean age was 47 ± 12 years, with a female predominance (61% vs. 39%). The 10-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes was 4.9%, while 27.3% had an increased risk, and 53.2% were at low risk. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 14.7%. Lack of physical activity, family history of diabetes, previous hyperglycemia, or therapy for hypertension were strongly associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes or an established diabetic status (p < 0.001) in this population. Conclusion: There is an urgent need to strengthen prevention strategies, particularly through education on healthy lifestyles and early screening of at-risk populations.