The effectiveness of exercise and diet in type 2 diabetes mellitus prevention in young people in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is an escalating public health issue among youth aged 15–29 in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), fuelled by urbanization, globalization, and lifestyle changes such as unhealthy diets and physical inactivity. As SSA faces a dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases, preventive strategies tailored to the region’s unique socio- economic and cultural contexts are urgently needed. This scoping review evaluates the effectiveness of dietary and physical activity interventions in preventing T2DM among SSA youth, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive and sustainable solutions.  

Methods: A scoping review methodology was adopted, guided by the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework. The review systematically identified and synthesized evidence from eight studies focused on dietary and physical activity interventions targeting youth in SSA. Data extraction included study design, intervention type, outcomes such as glycaemic control and obesity reduction, and contextual factors influencing intervention success. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify patterns and trends across studies, highlighting both successes and limitations. 

Results: The findings demonstrate that lifestyle interventions significantly reduce T2DM risk among SSA youth by improving glycaemic control, reducing obesity, and enhancing physical activity levels. Dietary modifications, such as reducing sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and promoting traditional diets, emerged as effective strategies. Physical activity interventions, particularly community-based programs, overcame barriers like safety concerns and limited facilities. Integrated interventions combining diet and exercise yielded superior outcomes compared to standalone approaches. However, challenges persist, including socio-economic barriers, cultural norms favouring larger body sizes, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. 

Conclusion: This review highlights the urgent need for context-specific and culturally sensitive interventions to prevent T2DM in SSA youth. Addressing barriers such as the high cost of healthy foods, limited recreational spaces, and cultural perceptions is critical. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes, scalability, and regional disparities. Leveraging community-based programs, education campaigns, and mobile health platforms can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of interventions, reducing the T2DM burden among SSA youth and improving overall public health outcomes.