Prevalence and Associated Factors of Diabetes Mellitus among Adults in Parakou, Benin, 2025

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a non-communicable disease whose prevalence is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Benin, where it represents a major public health problem. The main objective of this study was to investigate diabetes mellitus in the general population of Parakou in 2025. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study with an analytical aim conducted from May 1 to July 31, 2025. The study population consisted of individuals aged at least 18 years, residing in Parakou for at least six months, and who provided informed consent to participate in the study. The dependent variable was diabetes mellitus, while the independent variables included sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with diabetes mellitus. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 600 individuals were included. The mean age of participants was 33.50 ± 11.30 years, with a male predominance (65.33%). The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 14.17%. Among individuals with diabetes, 69.41% were unaware of their condition. Factors associated with diabetes mellitus were age ≥ 40 years (OR = 2.44 [1.40 - 4.26], p = 0.002), monthly income ≥ 104,000 FCFA (OR = 5.72 [1.36 - 24.05], p = 0.017), overweight (OR = 3.43 [1.54 - 7.64], p = 0.001), obesity (OR = 19.12 [8.62 - 42.37], p = 0.001), increased waist circumference (OR = 3.11 [1.85 - 5.28], p = 0.001), and physical inactivity (OR = 2.78 [1.17 - 6.59], p = 0.020). Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus is common in the population of Parakou. Most individuals with diabetes were unaware of their condition, highlighting the need for screening, particularly among high-risk groups.