Risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus among cleaning staff in a Bolivian university

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease preventable through early detection and healthy habits, the risk of which can be assessed using the FINDRISC questionnaire. The objective of this research was to determine the risk of developing T2DM among cleaning staff at the Domingo Savio Private University in Bolivia. A descriptive, cross-sectional, and quantitative study was conducted. The FINDRISC questionnaire was administered to 22 workers during the first half of 2025. Anthropometric data, personal and family medical history, dietary habits, and physical activity were collected. The majority of participants were under 45 years of age (95.5%) and were either overweight (59.1%) or obese (9.1%). 68.2% did not consume fruits or vegetables daily, and 31.8% did not engage in regular physical activity. Abdominal circumference was elevated in 22.7% of participants. 68.2% presented a low risk, 13.6% a slightly elevated risk, another 13.6% a moderate risk, and 4.5% a high risk of developing T2DM in the next 10 years. Although the majority presented a low risk, factors such as abdominal obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history were identified as increasing the likelihood of developing T2DM. These results highlight the need to implement preventive strategies focused on healthy habits and regular check-ups in this study population.