Geographical Distribution of Diabetic Patients in Riyadh City
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Abstract
The global and local prevalence of chronic diseases—particularly diabetes, one of the most widespread among them—prompted this study. It aimed to analyze the geographic distribution of diabetes in Riyadh in 2025 using data obtained from healthcare centers and public clinics. Riyadh recorded 608 cases of diabetes, with a prevalence rate of 42 per 1,000 inhabitants. The study revealed that the 60-and-older age group accounted for the highest proportion of cases (34.4%), while the 1–30 age group recorded the lowest (9.9%). Males constituted 70.2% of recorded cases, a significantly higher figure than females, who accounted for 29.8%. Furthermore, smoking did not appear to be a major factor contributing to diabetes incidence, as smokers represented only 34.4% of the cases; a family history of the disease was noted in 30.3% of cases.
Chi-square test results indicated no statistically significant differences among the city's neighborhoods regarding gender, age, smoking status, marital status, or educational level at a 0.05 confidence level. However, family history was the only statistical variable showing a significant difference (P=0.025), although the strength of the association remained limited according to Cramer's V coefficient (V=0.177). The study concluded that the geographical distribution of diabetes in Riyadh varies across neighborhoods and that relying on prevalence rates—rather than absolute case numbers—is more effective in identifying neighborhoods with high disease concentrations; this, in turn, helps direct early detection programs, awareness initiatives, and health services toward the areas and population groups in greatest need.
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