Investigating the type 2 diabetes epidemic and contributing lifestyle factors in the State of Kuwait: an evolutionary mismatch perspective

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Investigating the type 2 diabetes epidemic and contributing lifestyle factors in the State of Kuwait: an evolutionary mismatch perspective

Diabetes mellitus is a complex, multifactorial group of chronic metabolic diseases falling under the umbrella of non-communicable diseases. In the State of Kuwait, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus is 22.4% among men and 14.4% among women over the age of twenty. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the dominant phenotype of diabetes mellitus, accounting for approximately 90% of cases. Various modifiable factors, including overweight and obesity, low physical activity levels, and unhealthy dietary habits, affect T2DM risk. Hence, behavioral modification could be an invaluable disease prevention and management strategy. Public knowledge of T2DM management in Kuwait, however, remains limited, particularly concerning lifestyle factors. Investigating T2DM and the contributing lifestyle factors through an evolutionary mismatch perspective offers a unique, relatively unexplored perspective on T2DM prevention and management. That said, the sedentary lifestyle and dietary patterns in Kuwait—characterized by low physical activity levels, high ultra-processed food consumption, and traditional low-fiber dishes—stand in stark contrast to ancestral human behaviors. Environmental conditions and economic prosperity act as mediators of these behaviors and must be addressed to sustain lifestyle modifications. To overcome these challenges, utilizing air-conditioned public spaces, such as large shopping malls, may facilitate increased physical activity. Likewise, incorporating fiber-rich foods into existing eating habits, such as consuming a Middle Eastern salad or lentil soup as an appetizer, could promote healthier dietary patterns. While further research is needed to refine T2DM prevention and management strategies, these recommendations may contribute to a healthier future for Kuwait.

Case study

2026.01.01

The last research project presents a case report examining the application of an innovative preventive health screening tool for early detection of modifiable risk factors in non- communicable diseases (NCDs). The case focuses on an individual with elevated NCD risk, documenting baseline screening results across metrics such as physical activity levels, sleep quality, and handgrip strength. Over a twelve-week period, the project tracks the effectiveness of personalized lifestyle interventions recommended based on screening data. This case provides practical insights into the screening tool’s utility in a non-clinical setting, highlighting its role in empowering self-management and informing future improvements for broader preventive health applications.

Complex correlation matrix

2025.12.04

The complementary research project will investigate the statistical relationships among the metrics acquired through the preventive health screening tool. By analyzing these correlations— whether positive, negative, or statistically insignificant—the study aims to clarify how each metric interacts. Understanding these associations will enable practitioners to design health-promoting interventions with greater precision, ensuring that the recommended "dose" of lifestyle modifications is tailored to individual needs at the optimal time.

Self-management practices for non-communicable diseases

2025.12.01

The second phase of this doctoral thesis involves qualitative research designed to examine the challenges and opportunities related to self-management practices for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the State of Kuwait. This phase employs semi-structured interviews to capture in-depth insights from a cohort of highly educated professionals working in academia and the medical field, providing a nuanced understanding of their perspectives on health behaviors and self-care strategies. To complement these findings, a nationwide survey is conducted among the general population, offering a broader assessment of public attitudes, barriers, and facilitators influencing self-management practices across diverse demographic groups. Together, these studies aim to inform tailored interventions that enhance self-care capabilities and improve health outcomes in Kuwait.

Investigating the type 2 diabetes epidemic and contributing lifestyle factors in the State of Kuwait: an evolutionary mismatch perspective

Blogs