Prevalence and Correlates of Glucose Homeostasis Abnormalities in the Far-North Region Cameroon

Background: Evidence indicates a growing burden of glucose homeostasis abnormalities (namely type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prediabetes) in Cameroun. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of glucose homeostasis abnormalities (GHA) in the Far-North region of Cameroon, where these variables have not been explored so far. Methods: We included in this population-based cross-sectional survey 461 participants living urban area (Maroua) and 428 dwellers living in rural area (Tokombere) aged at least 18 years, using a multistage-cluster sampling frame. In all participants, we recorded sociodemographic, medical history, clinical data and fasting blood (capillary) glucose (FBG). Diabetes was considered for FBG ≥ 126 mg/dL or being on glucose-lowering medications, and impaired fasting glycemia (IFG) for FBG 100 - 125 mg/dL. Results: The overall age-standardized prevalence of GHA, IFG and diabetes was 33.6%, 21.7% and 11.9%, respectively. Those data were similar between urban and rural areas. Determinants of GHA were age, overweight/obesity, abdominal obesity and hypertension. IFG was only related to abdominal obesity, while diabetes was related to age, family history of diabetes, overweight/obesity, abdominal obesity and hypertension. Conclusion: Glucose homeostasis abnormalities are alarmingly high in Far North Cameroon. Efforts are needed to promote healthier lifestyles and initiate diabetes-screening campaigns in Cameroon.