Survey of Primary Care Physicians' Screening and Treatment Practices for Prediabetes in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

BackgroundPrediabetes is defined as a condition in which glucose levels do not fulfill the criteria for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), indicating that the patient is at an increased risk of developing T2DM. The risk of developing T2DM can be decreased by adequately managing prediabetes. This study aimed to assess screening and therapeutic approaches to prediabetes among primary care physicians in Saudi Arabia because there is little contemporary data available on this topic.MethodologyA cross-sectional study was performed among primary care physicians in Saudi Arabia. The participants completed a validated online survey questionnaire via Google Forms. Data collected included participants’ demographic information, knowledge of T2DM risk factors, and opinions and beliefs on prediabetes management.ResultsIn total, 155 primary care physicians responded to the questionnaire; 51% were male, 18.7% worked in Riyadh City, and 81.3% specialized in family medicine. Most study respondents (71.9%) were residents, and 64.5% worked for the Ministry of Health. Overall, 93.5% of the respondents had completed part of their postgraduate training in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, 27.7% of the respondents were aware of all nine risk factors associated with T2DM. The correct fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c ranges for the diagnosis of prediabetes were identified by 50% and 43.6% of participants, respectively. Most respondents believed lifestyle modification and metformin to be the most effective management approaches to prediabetes, whereas lack of motivation toward lifestyle changes was deemed to be a major barrier.ConclusionsWe found significant gaps in primary care physicians’ knowledge regarding prediabetes in Saudi Arabia, contributing to underscreening of the condition and undertreatment. Identifying these gaps is essential for focussing educational endeavors toward primary care physicians.