Perceived risk predicts Type 2 diabetes but not weight gain in a five year follow-up

Abstract

Higher perceived risk for certain disease should lead to actions that decrease the risk. Aim of this study is to examine does risk perception predict T2D in random sample of general population. Participants aged 45-74 years from the FINRISK study (n=1109) were invited to follow-up study 5 years later. 80% of the high risk group for T2D (n=432) and 84% of the other group (n=477) participated in the follow-up. Weight, height waist, hip, 2 hour fasting glucose test were measured in a health examination. Absolute perceived risk for T2D, self-efficacy, outcome beliefs and health behaviors were self-reported. High risk group had higher perceived risk than other group but no difference in self-efficacy or beliefs. After five years, 34% of high risk group and 6% of other group were diagnosed as having T2D. Perceived risk did not predict weight or waist changes but those who had higher perceived risk were more likely to have T2D in both groups OR=1.78 (1.44-2.21). Perceived risk predict new T2D cases but not weight or waist increase in high and normal risk groups.