Lifestyle Factors Associated with Albuminuria in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Study in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Albuminuria is a strong predictor of diabetic nephropathy. Lifestyle factors may influence its development and progression. Aim: This study assessed the association between lifestyle factors and albuminuria among patients with T2DM in Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted among 778 adults aged 18–65 years with T2DM attending two tertiary hospitals in Edo State between May and July 2025. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and albuminuria assessed using Albustix test strips. Associations between lifestyle factors and albuminuria were examined using chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis. Results: The mean age of respondents was 45 ± 12 years, with 58.1% females. Albuminuria was detected in 134 participants (17.2%). Significant associations were observed between albuminuria and inadequate dietary habits (p<0.0001), obesity (p=0.012), inadequate sleep (p=0.0006), smoking (p=0.006), and alcohol intake (p=0.0005). Logistic regression revealed that inadequate diet, obesity, inadequate sleep, smoking, and alcohol consumption independently predicted albuminuria. Conclusion: Albuminuria was prevalent among patients with T2DM in Edo State, Nigeria and was significantly influenced by modifiable lifestyle factors. Lifestyle modification could help reduce the burden of diabetic nephropathy and its complications.