ASSOCIATION BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE STATUS, DIET QUALITY, ANTHROPOMETRY AND RISK OF DIABETES MELLITUS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

Background: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. It has become a global health threat, particularly among young adults. Methods: This study aimed to determine the association between knowledge status, diet quality, anthropometry, and the risk of diabetes mellitus among young adults at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 university students. Data on sociodemographics, knowledge status, and diet quality were collected using validated questionnaires, while anthropometric measurements were taken face-to-face. The Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) was used to assess the 10-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Results: showed a significant association (p < 0.05) between anthropometric indices and diabetes risk. Among underweight individuals, 97% were at moderate risk and 3% at low risk. In the normal-weight group, 74.1% were at moderate risk and 25.9% at low risk. The risk increased markedly with higher BMI, with 100% of those in obesity class III categorized as high risk. A strong relationship was also observed between waist circumference and diabetes risk: 45.5% of individuals with central obesity were at high risk, while none were in the low-risk group. Conclusion: assessing diabetes risk among young adults is crucial for early prevention. Enhancing awareness and promoting healthy dietary habits are essential strategies. Implementing targeted educational and health promotion programs in universities may effectively reduce diabetes risk among young adults