Screening of newly-diagnosed adults with Tuberculosis for Diabetes mellitus and Impaired Glucose Tolerance in a Local Government Area in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Emerging patterns in epidemiological transitions have led to increased risk for Non-Communicable Diseases and infectious conditions globally. Diabetes mellitus (DM) in a population is one such risk factor that could lead to the development of Tuberculosis (TB) due to weakened immune functions in affected persons, with implications for mortality. If not diagnosed early, DM also leads to poor treatment outcomes in TB. Objective: To assess the prevalence of DM and impaired glucose tolerance (pre-diabetes) among newly diagnosed tuberculosis cases in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 newly diagnosed Pulmonary TB patients in ljebu-Ode LGA. The patients were selected from four health facilities and were screened for elevated Fasting Blood Glucose levels using a laboratory spectrophotometer (glucose oxidase method). Results: The mean age of the 100 study participants was 33 years (± 9.82), with ages within 19 -62 years. Eleven (11.0%) had elevated blood glucose levels suggestive of DM, while 20 (20.0%) had impaired fasting blood glucose levels. Among these 31 patients, 18 (58.0%) were males while 13 (42.0%) were females. The modal ages were within 20-39 years. Conclusion: Screening for DM by healthcare providers should be routinely conducted before commencing TB patients on treatment. This will aid early detection, improve treatment outcomes of TB and prevent mortality among patients with these co-morbidities.