Spatial Analysis of Prediabetes and Associated Risk Factor Prevalence Among Late Adolescents in San Luis Potosí, México

Introduction The prevalence of prediabetes is increasing worldwide. However, the determinants that contribute to its onset in young individuals remain poorly understood. An essential aspect of directing control and preventive initiatives is comprehending the geographical distribution of these disorders and pinpointing regions with a high prevalence. Objective The objective of this study was to determine the spatial distribution of prediabetes and associated risk factor prevalence among late adolescents in the metropolitan area of San Luis Potosí (MASLP), México, during the years 2008, 2009, and 2010. Methods This was a cross-sectional study that included 15,672 participants between the ages of 18 and 21 years. We made a cartographic overlay of the body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) using a 2010 marginalization index. Results The prevalence of prediabetes was 5.5%, whereas the prevalence of overweight and obesity remained stable for three years. However, in 2010, the prevalence of both diastolic BP and prediabetes increased. Spatial analysis revealed that the urban basic geostatistical area (Area Geo-Estadística Básica (AGEB)), with 11-20 participants with prediabetes, was mainly concentrated in the areas of medium and low marginalization throughout all years. Conclusion We found a yearly increase in prediabetes prevalence and increased diastolic BP. Prediabetes varies across the region. MASLP has statistically detected significant high hot spots in prediabetes. The findings of this study are valuable for directing resource distribution and highlighting intervention programs that target modifiable prediabetes predictors. To improve health coverage, it is necessary to consider different local realities.