Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global public health problem with a rising prevalence, leading to significant health and economic burdens. This study aimed to assess the 10-year risk of developing T2DM among fifth and sixth-year medical students in Faculty of Medicine, Thamar University, Yemen.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 176 fifth and sixth-year medical students in Thamar University-Yemen. A structured questionnaire based on the FINDRISC tool was used to collect data on risk factors, including age, BMI, waist circumference, physical activity, fruit and vegetable consumption, blood pressure medication, fasting blood sugar level, and family history of diabetes. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, and descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and student t-tests were used for analysis.

Results: Among the students, 22.7% had slightly elevated risk, 2.3% had moderate risk, and 0.6% had a high risk of developing diabetes based on FINDRISC scores. Overweight and obesity prevalence were 29%, and 14.77% had central obesity. Regular physical activity was reported by 84.1%. Family history of diabetes was prevalent (55.7%).There are significant Associations ( p value ≤ 0.05) of characteristics among subjects (Body mass index (kg/m2), Waist circumference (cm), physical activity, family history of DM) with FINDRISK total score .

Conclusion: This study highlights the need for preventive measures and lifestyle interventions among medical students to reduce diabetes risk factors. Healthcare providers can play a vital role in promoting healthy behaviors and preventing type 2 diabetes among medical students, who serve as role models and future healthcare professionals.