Durban Diabetes Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Durban Diabetes Study: A population based cross-sectional study of the epidemiology of diabetes mellitus in urban South Africans of African descent
IRAS ID
156347
Contact name
Manjinder Sandhu
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute
Research summary
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is an emerging epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with the estimated prevalence (1-6%) expected to double by 2030, the highest growth in prevalence of T2D of any region in the world. In South Africa the prevalence of T2D among individuals of African descent has been reported to be between 3-10%. However, there have been limited studies on diabetes epidemiology in South Africans using currently employed World Health Organization criteria.
To reliably assess the burden of T2D and associated risk factors in South Africa, we have established the Durban Diabetes Study (DDS) – a population-based cross-sectional study in the city of Durban (the eThekwini municipality). As part of this study, just over 1,200 participants of African descent will be recruited. In-depth health questionnaire responses, biophysical measurements and blood and urine samples will be gathered from these participants. These data will allow researchers to estimate the population prevalence of T2D and associated risk factors in the region. The infrastructure created for this cross sectional study has the potential to serve as a strong framework for future research initiatives and public health interventions within the region.
REC name
West Midlands - Edgbaston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/WM/1061
Date of REC Opinion
11 Jul 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion