Evaluation of cancer frequency and characteristics in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in primary health care: a descriptive cross-sectional study
Ülkü Sur Ünal, Yüksel Duygu Altıparmak, Mahmud Esad Dindar, Melisa Karabulut, Arzu Kaya, Özge Dilay Önder, Beyza ÖzdemirAbstract
Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, types, and duration of diagnosed cancers among adult type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in a primary care setting in Türkiye and to examine associated clinical and demographic factors according to T2DM duration.
Background:
T2DM is a growing global health concern linked to increased risks of various cancers. Epidemiological data suggest a complex relationship involving shared risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms such as hyperinsulinemia, inflammation, and obesity.
Methods:
This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at an education-family health centre (EFHC), analysing medical records and patient interviews. The sample included 442 patients with T2DM registered at Marmara University Tuzla EFHC, of whom 152 had a diagnosed cancer. Data collected encompassed cancer prevalence, types, sociodemographic characteristics, clinical features (including body mass index, T2DM duration, comorbidities), and cancer duration.
Findings:
The prevalence of cancer among T2DM patients was 34.4%. The most common cancers were prostate in men and breast in women. No significant correlation was observed between T2DM duration and cancer duration; however, breast cancer was less frequent among women with longer T2DM duration compared to their cancer duration. A high rate of obesity and comorbidities was noted in the cohort. Cancer prevalence among Turkish T2DM patients in primary care is notably high, highlighting the importance of integrated screening and risk factor management. These findings underscore the need for targeted preventive strategies and personalized patient care to reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality in diabetic populations.