Prevalence and Determinants of Diabetes Mellitus Among the Adult Population of District Swat and Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52206/jsmc.2026.16.1.1376Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a rapidly growing global public health challenge affecting both developed and developing countries. Its prevalence is strongly influenced by demographic, epidemiological, nutritional, and environmental determinants. South Asian countries, including Pakistan, are experiencing a disproportionate rise in diabetes burden due to urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary transitions.
Objective: To estimate the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and examine its association with selected modifiable and non-modifiable determinants among the adult population of District Swat and District Peshawar.
Methodology: After obtaining ethical approval, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2024 among adults aged 18 years and above residing in Swat and Peshawar districts. A sample size of 309 participants was calculated using standard prevalence-based assumptions. Data were collected using a structured and pre-tested proforma covering sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, dietary patterns, and clinical history. Diabetes mellitus was defined based on prior diagnosis, use of anti-diabetic medication, and/or HbA1c level >6.6.
Results: Out of 309 participants, 19.74% were found to have diabetes mellitus. Among diabetic individuals, 44.26% were aged above 60 years, 60.66% were males, and 68.85% belonged to urban or semi-urban areas. Overweight or obesity was present in 39.34%, while 40.98% were unemployed. Significant associations were observed between diabetes mellitus and tobacco smoking (57.38%, p<0.001), positive family history (31.15%, p=0.0248), sedentary lifestyle (67.21%, p=0.0003), lack of physical exercise (80.33%, p=0.011), and meat consumption (p<0.001). Advanced age, marital status, low income, and overweight/obesity also showed significant associations.
Conclusion: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the study population was lower than national estimates but showed strong associations with both modifiable and non-modifiable determinants.
Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Lifestyle, Prevalence, Physical Activity, Risk Factors, Tobacco Smoking.
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