Comparative Analysis of Lifestyle Practices Between Diabetic Patients and Healthy Non-diabetic Individuals in the Saudi Population

TL;DR

This study compares lifestyle habits of diabetic and non-diabetic people in Saudi Arabia to guide health interventions.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into lifestyle differences in Saudi Arabia's diabetic and non-diabetic populations.

Findings

Diabetic individuals were older, male, sedentary, and more likely to smoke.

Non-diabetic individuals consumed more fruits, fast food, and had flexible meal schedules.

Fewer diabetics engaged in regular physical activity compared to non-diabetics.

Abstract

Background: The burden of diabetes mellitus in Saudi Arabia is considerable, with high prevalence rates affecting the population's health and healthcare resources. This situation necessitates attention from healthcare policymakers. The study aims to compare lifestyle practices between diabetic and non-diabetic individuals in Saudi Arabia to inform targeted health interventions.

Objectives: The primary aim is to compare lifestyle practices, including dietary habits, physical activity levels, and smoking habits, between diabetic and non-diabetic individuals in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A 12-month cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A total of 424 participants, evenly distributed across age, gender, and socioeconomic status, were enrolled. A total of 424 participants, balanced for age, gender, and socioeconomic status, were recruited. Data were collected via structured interviews employing a validated questionnaire. The King Fahad Medical City IRB approved the study. Informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Results: The study found that diabetic individuals were more likely to be older, male, and sedentary (p < 0.001). They were also at a higher likelihood of being current smokers (p = 0.002) and consuming whole grains regularly. Non-diabetic individuals consumed more fruits and fast food and had more flexible meal schedules (p < 0.001). Both groups had similar levels of regular vegetable consumption. A significantly lower proportion of diabetics (40 individuals; 20%) engaged in moderate physical activity three to four days a week compared to non-diabetics (80 individuals; 36%), which was highly significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The study identified critical differences in lifestyle practices between diabetic and non-diabetic individuals in Saudi Arabia. These findings underscore the need for tailored health interventions to address the rising diabetes rates and promote healthier lifestyle practices among the Saudi population.