Prevalence and impact of sociodemographic factors, comorbidities, and lifestyle on diabetes complications among patients with type 2 diabetes in Riyadh

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing public health concern globally, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where increasing prevalence is associated with significant morbidity. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of diabetes-related complications among patients in Riyadh and examine the impact of sociodemographic factors, comorbidities, and lifestyle habits on these complications. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 980 diabetic patients attending health centers in Riyadh from March to April 2023. Data were collected via a validated bilingual questionnaire that captured sociodemographic information, diabetes-related variables, comorbid conditions, lifestyle habits, and complications. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary regression, were performed via SPSS to identify significant associations. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant for all comparisons. Among the participants (980), 38% (378) reported diabetes-related complications, primarily neuropathy (30%), retinopathy (25%), and cardiovascular diseases (20%). Complications were significantly associated with older age (p < 0.001) and longer diabetes duration (more than 5 years; p < 0.001). Individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, heart disease, kidney disease, and obesity had significantly higher complication rates than those without these conditions (p < 0.05). The most pronounced association was observed in participants with heart disease (85% vs. 15%; RR = 1.506), highlighting the need for better management of these comorbidities. Consuming fruits and vegetables, milk, and regular exercise were inversely associated with the risk of complications (p < 0.05). Conversely, sugary drinks, white bread, sheesha/vaping, and inadequate sleep were linked to increased risk (p < 0.05), highlighting the protective role of healthy dietary and lifestyle habits. This study highlights the impact of sociodemographic factors and lifestyle choices-such as age, education, family history, comorbidities, and poor diet-on diabetes complications. While early detection and lifestyle interventions are vital, a cautious approach is needed when applying these findings to other regions, given differences in socioeconomic circumstances.