Prevalence of impaired glucose metabolism and potential predictors: a rapid appraisal among ≥ 45 years old residents of southern Tajikistan.

Abstract

An estimated 2% of all deaths in Tajikistan can be attributed to diabetes but reliable data are scarce for the country and across Central Asia. We assessed the prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes and associated predictors among residents aged ≥ 45 years in two districts in southern Tajikistan. A population-representative survey following the WHO STEPwise approach to surveillance and including a two-stage cluster sampling was conducted. Enrolled participants were asked about risk factors for diabetes, and blood pressure, height and weight were measured. The blood glucose level was determined after overnight fasting, and the 2 h oral glucose tolerance test was performed if indicated. Complete datasets were available for 584 out of 672 study participants. One third of the cohort was male and half were 45-54 years old. Overall, 21.2% of the participants were found to be diabetic, 5.1% had impaired glucose tolerance and 4.3% impaired fasting glucose. An elevated body mass index ≥ 25 was observed in 61.5% of the cohort and an elevated blood pressure in 45.6% (systolic, cut-off 140 mm Hg) and 52.3% (diastolic, cut-off 90 mm Hg) respectively. Half of the participants classified as diabetic were aware of their status. Impaired glucose tolerance and overweight are common among elderly residents of southern Tajikistan. Primary health care services should be strengthened to improve early detection and ensure adequate treatment of diabetes and quality of care. Community-based awareness rising about available peripheral services is crucial.