Lifestyle Choices, Dietary Habits and Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes among Adults in Aba South Senatorial District, Abia State

Abstract

This study assessed lifestyle choices, dietary habits and prevalence of T2DM among adults in Abia south senatorial district, Nigeria. Three specific purposes, research questions and hypotheses were raised to guide the study. Descriptive survey design was adopted. Population consisted of adults, aged 40 years and above, residing in Abia south senatorial district, Nigeria. Sample size was 632. Double stage sampling technique was used to select the sample. Two instruments (“LCDHQ” and “T2DPAT”), were used for data collection. The instruments were given face and content validation. The LCDHQ was subjected to reliability test, and it yielded an index of .89 after analysis using Cronbach Alpha. The T2DPAT was adapted from standardized instrument. Six hundred and twenty-eight valid completed copies, each of the instruments were used for analysis. Research questions were answered using frequencies and percentages. Findings revealed that there was high prevalence of T2DM among adults.  Many adults with T2DM had unhealthy food choices/consumption. Majority of diabetic adults were overweight and obese, and inactive. There were significant influences of all lifestyle and dietary habit variables on prevalence of T2DM.  Abia State Ministry of Health should develop interventions for prevention and management of T2DM