Abstract: Background: Diabetes mellitus is a growing global health challenge strongly associated with obesity. While both elevated fasting blood sugar (FBS) and increased Body Mass Index (BMI) are independently linked to type 2 diabetes mellitus, evidence regarding a direct relationship between BMI and FBS remains inconsistent. Urban elite populations, characterized by affluence, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary transitions, may exhibit unique metabolic patterns. This study assessed the relationship between BMI and FBS among an adult urban elite population in Onitsha, Nigeria.
Methods: A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 96 consenting Knights and Ladies of the Anglican Communion, at Onitsha. Sociodemographic data, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar were obtained using standardized procedures. BMI was calculated from measured height and weight, and FBS was assessed using a Double G glucometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Independent samples t‑tests compared mean values by gender, while Pearson’s correlation coefficient evaluated the relationship between BMI and FBS. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results: Participants had a mean age of 61.35 ± 10.3 years; 54.2% were female. The mean BMI was 30.4 ± 3.87 kg/m², indicating obesity, and the mean FBS was 114.2 ± 29.71 mg/dl, reflecting impaired fasting glucose. Males had significantly higher FBS than females (123.7 vs. 106.19 mg/dl, p = .003), while females had significantly higher BMI (31.85 vs. 28.68 kg/m², p < .001). Pearson’s correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between BMI and FBS (r = –.095, p = .357).
Conclusion: Despite high levels of obesity and impaired fasting glucose in this urban elite population, BMI did not correlate with fasting blood sugar. These findings suggest that BMI alone may not be a reliable predictor of glycaemic status in older, socioeconomically advantaged adults. Measures of central obesity may offer better predictive value and should be prioritized in future research.
Keywords: Body Mass Index, Fasting Blood Sugar, type 2 Diabetes mellitus, urban population, obesity.
Title: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Body Mass Index and Fasting Blood Sugar Levels among Urban Elite Adult Population
Author: Onyekwelu J, Njelita IA.
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 121-127
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 14-May-2026
