Prevalence and Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Among Obese Adults in Kano State, North West Nigeria

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is rising sharply across urban and peri-urban Nigeria, driven by increasing obesity rates, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary shifts toward refined carbohydrates. This study examines the prevalence and risk factors for type 2 diabetes among obese adults in Kano State. A descriptive cross-sectional design is applied to 310 adults aged 30 and above with a body mass index of 30 or above, recruited from three general hospitals and community health centres in Kano Metropolis and Nassarawa local government areas through systematic sampling. Fasting blood glucose measurements are performed using standard glucometers, and structured questionnaires collect data on physical activity, dietary habits, family history of diabetes, waist circumference, and alcohol consumption. SPSS is used for analysis, with chi-square and logistic regression employed. Nigeria's 2022 National Diabetes Management and Prevention Strategy estimates a diabetes prevalence of approximately 5.7 percent nationally, with obese urban adults disproportionately affected. The study applies the Biopsychosocial Model to examine the interplay of metabolic, behavioural, and social risk factors. Findings will guide Kano State's Ministry of Health in scaling up non-communicable disease screening programmes and targeted lifestyle interventions. Keywords: type 2 diabetes, obesity, risk factors, adults, Kano State.