The Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus among Inmates at Kality Federal Prison, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is responsible for the loss of millions of lives globally. Ethiopia has been reported to have the highest number of people affected by diabetes mellitus in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, its magnitude has not been studied on inmates, and yet no adequate attention has been given to the epidemic, making the provision of appropriate services difficult. Hence, this study assessed the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among Kality Federal prisoners, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods: An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from August to September, 2015 at Kality Federal prison. Eight hundred thirty prisoners were selected using the simple random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO STEP-wise approach was used. Anthropometric measurement was taken using a standardized technique and equipment. Diabetes Mellitus was confirmed by fasting blood glucose (FBG) tests. The multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify factors associated with illness. The adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated to show the strength of associations. A p-value of <0.05 was used to declare statistical significance.

Result: The overall prevalence of diabetes mellitus among Kality Federal prisoners was 4.69% (95% CI=3.26- 6.14). The proportion was high among urban (5.3%) than rural (1.58%) dwellers. The prevalence of diabetes increased with age in both men and women; peak prevalence (13.8 %) was noted among the older (54-63years) group. Out of the 39 subjects classified as diabetic, the proportion of a newly diagnosed DM was 10 (25.6%). Family history of Diabetes mellitus (AOR= 4.99, 95% CI: 2.16-11.54), and being in the 44-53 years age group (AOR= 3.87, 95% CI: 1.07- 14.03) were found to be more associated with the problem.

Conclusion: The study revealed that the proportion of diabetes mellitus is considerably high among prisoners, and family history of DM and old age were significantly associated with the disease. Thus, providing access to early screening among the elderly and those with family history is necessary to reduce the risks and complications of diabetes.