The Rising Trend of Diabetes Mellitus in Young Adults: Investigating Risk Factors, Lifestyle Influences, and Preventive Strategies
1Dr Bushra naz, 2Umar Ali, 3Mona Jamal , 4Dr Sajawal mir, 5Khurram Ali, 6Marwa Riaz
1Azad Jammu and Kashmir medical college muzaffarbad
2PIMS Islamabad
3UHS
3Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar
4Post graduate training FCPS II Abbas institute of medical science muzaffarbad ajk
5PIMS Islamabad
6UHS Lahore
Corresponding: Mona Jamal, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar
Vol: 14/02
Received: January 25, 2026 Accepted: March 02, 2026 Published: July 06, 2026
ABSTRACT:
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) has traditionally been considered a disease of middle-aged and older adults. However, recent trends indicate a rising prevalence of DM among young adults, attributed to various genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding the underlying risk factors and preventive strategies is crucial to mitigating this growing health concern.
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the risk factors, lifestyle influences, and preventive strategies associated with the increasing incidence of DM in young adults.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from October 2023 to September 2024. The study population comprised 120 young adults diagnosed with DM. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and medical records, assessing demographic characteristics, family history, lifestyle habits, dietary patterns, physical activity levels, and preventive healthcare measures. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS to identify significant associations between risk factors and DM incidence.
Results: The study found that sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, obesity, and a positive family history of DM were major contributors to the increasing prevalence of DM in young adults. Additionally, high stress levels and irregular sleep patterns were significantly associated with the disease. Participants who engaged in regular physical activity and followed a balanced diet exhibited better glycemic control. Preventive strategies, including awareness programs and early screening, were reported to be effective in reducing disease progression.
Conclusion: The findings highlighted that modifiable lifestyle factors played a crucial role in the rising trend of DM among young adults. Early intervention through lifestyle modifications, dietary improvements, and routine screenings was essential in reducing the disease burden. Public health initiatives should focus on promoting awareness and preventive strategies to curb the increasing prevalence of DM in this population.Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, young adults, risk factors, lifestyle influences, preventive strategies, obesity, physical activity, dietary habits.