The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated factors among adult patients attending Outpatient Department at Jinella Health Center, Harar, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common type of diabetes, accounting for over 90% of all diabetes cases worldwide. T2DM is usually developed in older ages and is usually associated with obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, or a high-calorie diet. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of T2DM and its associated factors among adult patients attending Outpatient Department at Jinella Health Center, Harar, Ethiopia. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2023. Face-to-face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics from 372 eligible participants. The random blood glucose level of the participants was measured from the capillary blood by pricking their fingers. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the characteristics of the study participants. To determine factors associated with T2DM, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used. The odd ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to determine the strength of association between the predictor and T2DM. A P-value of <.05 in multivariable logistic analysis was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of T2DM was 15.3% (95% CI: 11.82-19.39%). The highest prevalence of T2DM was seen in female patients (61.4%). Furthermore, the prevalence was higher in the age group of 58 to 67 (36.8%). Being overweight (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 5.522; 95% CI: 2.643-11.534) and family history of diabetes mellitus (AOR = 0.114; 95% CI: 0.052-0.252) were significantly associated with T2DM. T2DM is one of the public health concerns in the adult population. Being overweight and family history of DM can increase the risk of developing T2DM. Relevant departments should establish effective policies and interventions to implement educational programs. Additionally, individuals should embrace a healthy lifestyle, increase their physical activity, and maintain a healthy weight. These measures can aid in type 2 diabetes management in the region.