Epidemiological factors for abnormal glucose levels in undergraduate students from the south of Tamaulipas, Mexico

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is an epidemic that requires actions in all areas of the health field in order to reduce its counterproductive effects. Mexico has a prevalence of diabetes of 10%. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of DM2 in adolescents and young people in the southern region of the state of Tamaulipas.Methods: Adolescents and undergraduate students residing in southern Tamaulipas were included. Informed consent was obtained and a risk factor questionnaire was applied. Subsequently, glycemia profiles and anthropometric data were obtained and the information was categorized.Results: A total of 307 adolescents and young adults participated, we found a low prevalence of diabetes with 2%, but cases of prediabetes (18%) well above the national average. Alcohol consumption and smoking had a high prevalence, 14% of the participants presented obesity in classes II and III.Conclusions: A low percentage of DM2 was found, but prediabetes is well above the national average. This study serves as a background for the evaluation of health policies as well as the management of new guidelines to combat diseases such as DM2.