Assessment of Prevalence of Impaired Blood Glucose among Staff of University of Maiduguri

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of impaired blood glucose among staff at the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria, to identify potential public health concerns within an occupational setting. Utilizing an ex-post-facto cross-sectional design, the research involved 200 randomly selected staff members who underwent biomedical measurements—including fasting blood glucose, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, and blood pressure—alongside demographic and behavioral data collection through questionnaires. The findings revealed a mean age of 42.3 years, with a gender distribution of 74% males and 26% females. The prevalence of impaired blood glucose was found to be significant; however, statistical analysis indicated no significant difference between genders (χ²=0.316, p=0.574), suggesting that both male and female staff are equally susceptible to early glucose metabolism disturbances. Most participants fell within the normal BMI range, but a considerable proportion were overweight or obese, correlating with increased risk factors for impaired glucose regulation. The results underscore the impact of sedentary lifestyles, occupational stress, and dietary habits prevalent in academic environments. Based on these findings, the study recommends routine screening programs, promotion of healthy lifestyle practices, and targeted health education campaigns to facilitate early detection and prevention of diabetes and related non-communicable diseases among university staff. Addressing these risk factors is essential for improving individual health outcomes and maintaining institutional productivity.

Keywords: Impaired Blood Glucose, University Staff Health, Non-Communicable Diseases, Occupational Risk Factors and Diabetes Prevention.