PriMera Scientific Surgical Research and Practice (ISSN: 2836-0028)

Literature Review

Volume 7 Issue 5

Factors Contributing to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Patients Attending Longisa County Referral Hospital in Bomet County, Kenya

Bernard C Kiprotich and Alfred A Osoro*

April 29, 2026

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Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) has emerged as a pressing global health problem, contributing to the burden of non-communicable diseases. Recent estimates suggest that around 40% of the global population are affected, with numbers expected to rise. Once viewed largely as a lifestyle-related condition, DM is now understood to stem from a range of genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for comprehensive strategies to prevent and manage diabetes and its complications. In Africa, diabetes is a leading cause of death, especially among economically productive age groups. Contributing challenges include weak healthcare systems, delayed diagnosis, and limited treatment access. In Kenya, prevalence reached 3.5% in 2014, and is expected to reach 4.5% in 2025, highlighting a growing need for early detection and effective treatment. Alarmingly, many individuals remain undiagnosed, and more than 5% of diagnosed cases already exhibit complications. National health efforts focus on building healthcare provider capacity and supporting long-term prevention measures. Objective: The objective of the study was to establish factors contributing to type 2 diabetes mellitus among subjects residing in Longisa sub-county of Bomet County. Method: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study which collected data from a randomized group of 400 subjects. Result: Data revealed the following findings: males were 180(45.1%) while females were 220(54.9%). Subjects ranged from 18 to over 60 years of age, while majority were between 40 to 49 years who were 121(30.3%). Regarding marital status, out of 400 subjects, 208 (52%) were married. As regards to the level of education, 81(20.2%) had completed primary education, 161(40.3%) had completed secondary education, while 158(39.5%) had completed tertiary education. Out of 400 subjects, 164(41%) had a history of diabetes in the family. Regarding comorbidities, 82(20.5%) had low blood sugar level, 42 (10.5%) had hearing problems, 76 (19%) had eye problems, while 120(30%) presented with wounds. Regarding life-style factors, 160 (40.1%) were smoking cigarettes, 240(40.2%) were taking alcohol, while 121(30.3%) were taking meals twice a day, and 320 (80.1%) were consuming fatty foods. Again, 280 (70%) consumed enough vegetables and fruits. Regarding exercise, 259 (64.8%) subjects were involved in carrying out daily exercises. Conclusion: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus will continue to afflict individuals unless collective interventions are implemented to scale it down through community mobilization and education. Changing people’s life-style, in reducing obesity, proper nutrition avoiding cigarette smoking and engaging in exercises.

Keywords: Type2Diabetes Mellitus; Lifestyle factors; Physical Activities; Non-Communicable Diseases

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