Risk calculation of developing type 2 diabetes in Libyan adults

The aim of this study was to identify nationals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes within the next 10 years in some areas across Tripoli Health Authority in Libya.

In this questionnaire‐based survey, a total of 400 Libyan nationals of both genders were randomly selected from seven areas across the central area of Tripoli Health Authority (Soug El‐Juma, Zawet Dahmani, Al‐Furnaj, Ain Zara, Al‐Madena Centre, Al‐Dhahra Centre, and Noflean).

All participants approached (400) completed the study and responded to the items of the survey. Based on a modified Finnish Type 2 Diabetes Risk Score test (FINDRISC), 129 (32.3%) were categorised as either at moderate or at high/very high risk of developing diabetes within the next 10 years of life. Among the 129 participants at risk, body mass index was >25 kg/m² in 125 (96.9%) and waist circumferences were high (>88 cm for females;>102 cm for males) in almost 45% of the women and 22% of the men.

We found that in the sample studied the risk of developing diabetes was clear, and there is no doubt that interventions to reduce such risk are a priority rather than a need. Diabetes has a great impact on the health of the nation and also on the future resources of the country in managing the disease and its complications; a health education/health campaign could be one good answer to tackle the problem. Copyright ©2009 John Wiley & Sons.