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Prevalence of diabetes mellitus among traumatic patients admitted to Aseer Central Hospital, Aseer Region, Abha, Saudi Arabia: cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traumatic injuries among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are associated with extended hospital stays and higher mortality rates. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of DM among traumatic patients admitted to Aseer Central Hospital, Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was conducted among trauma casualties aged 18 years and older admitted to the Trauma Center of Asser Central Hospital, Abha, Saudi Arabia, for six months from July 1 to December 31, 2024. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire covered various aspects, including demographic information, smoking status, presence of chronic diseases, previous diabetes diagnoses, details of any accidents, diabetes diagnosis during the accident, and self-care practices. RESULTS: Three hundred and eleven trauma casualties were included with a mean age of 46.7 ± 12.9. Of them, 60.8% were men. The study found that the prevalence of diabetes among trauma casualties was 8.7%, with 48.2% incidentally discovered during the current trauma. Among diagnosed patients, 33.3% had glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels between 7.51-8.5%, 11.1% between 8.51-9.5%, and 22.2% exceeded 9.5%. The predictors of diabetes diagnosis included smoking (OR = 6.39, 95% CI = 2.08-19.63), lower levels of education levels (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.58-0.96), and a positive family history (OR = 24.9, CI = 7.96-78.36). CONCLUSIONS: The study found an 8.7% prevalence of diabetes among trauma casualties, with nearly half discovered during the event. Factors like smoking, education, and family history of diabetes were associated with diagnosis. Routine diabetes screening is crucial for early detection and management. Targeted interventions, such as multidisciplinary care teams and telemedicine, can improve diabetes management. Further research is needed to address cultural and socioeconomic factors.

Source: BMC Endocrine Disorders

DOI: 10.1186/s12902-025-01949-6