Risk Assessment for Type II Diabetes Mellitus among Rural Residents

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) remains a growing public health concern, particularly in rural areas in the Philippines, due to limited access to healthcare facilities, which may contribute to challenges in early detection and prevention of the disease. Risk assessment and prevention strategies are important for identifying individuals who may be at risk and supporting early intervention.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among residents of selected rural barangays.
Methods: A quantitative-descriptive research design was employed. A total of 370 respondents participated in the study through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire composed of the respondents' demographic profile and the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) tool. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, descriptive statistics, and the chi-square test.
Results: Nearly half of the respondents (45.95%) were classified as having low risk of developing T2DM, while 54.05% had slightly elevated to high risk. Specifically, 38.38% were classified as having slightly elevated risk, 11.35% as moderate risk, and 4.32% as high risk. A Chi-square test of independence revealed a statistically significant association between Educational Attainment and T2DM risk level (χ²=19.17, p=0.024), with lower educational attainment associated with higher overall risk.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that while a substantial proportion of respondents had low risk, more than half had slightly elevated to high risk of developing T2DM, highlighting the importance of early risk assessment and preventive health measures in rural communities. The significant relationship between educational attainment and diabetes risk further underscores the need for accessible and targeted health education programs focused on T2DM prevention in the selected barangays.