Abstract
The burden and aetiology of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its microvascular complications may be influenced by varying behavioural and lifestyle environments as well as by genetic susceptibility. These aspects of the epidemiology of T2D have not been reliably clarified in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), highlighting the need for context-specific epidemiological studies with the statistical resolution to inform potential preventative and therapeutic strategies. Therefore, as part of the Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3Africa) initiative, we designed a multi-site study comprising case collections and population-based surveys at 11 sites in eight countries across SSA. The goal is to recruit up to 6000 T2D participants and 6000 control participants. We will collect questionnaire data, biophysical measurements and biological samples for chronic disease traits, risk factors and genetic data on all study participants. Through integrating epidemiological and genomic techniques, the study provides a framework for assessing the burden, spectrum and environmental and genetic risk factors for T2D and its complications across SSA. With established mechanisms for fieldwork, data and sample collection and management, data-sharing and consent for re-approaching participants, the study will be a resource for future research studies, including longitudinal studies, prospective case ascertainment of incident disease and interventional studies.
Highlights
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major cause of premature mortality and morbidity worldwide
Through integrating epidemiological and genomic techniques, the study provides a framework for assessing the burden, spectrum and environmental and genetic risk factors for T2D and its complications across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
With established mechanisms for fieldwork, data and sample collection and management, data-sharing and consent for re-approaching participants, the study will be a resource for future research studies, including longitudinal studies, prospective case ascertainment of incident disease and interventional studies
Summary
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major cause of premature mortality and morbidity worldwide. In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), T2D is an emerging epidemic with a current prevalence of around 1–6% [1]. In this region, it is estimated that 22 million adults were living with diabetes in 2013; this figure is expected to be more than double by 2035, representing the largest proportional increase in the burden of diabetes of any region in the world [2, 3]. Several established and emerging risk factors for T2D and cardiovascular diseases in Africa are similar to those found in other parts of the world, the magnitude and distribution of these factors may differ, and have not been fully studied in SSA in a large-scale epidemiological context [4]. The role of endemic infections on the aetiology of T2D, as well as on the prevalence and spectrum of diabetic complications has not been clarified in SSA [6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
