Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in People Aged 40 Years and Above

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, which leads to severe complications affecting multiple organs. The prevalence of DM, particularly Type 2 diabetes, has been increasing globally, exacerbated by factors such as poor diet and lack of physical activity. Previous research, including a study conducted in 2014 at DHQ Hospital Sargodha, indicated that the prevalence of diabetes can be reduced through proper diet and healthy activities.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of diabetes and its associated factors in individuals aged 40 years and above in Sargodha.

Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 150 participants aged 40 and above, selected from the general population and patients at DHQ Hospital Sargodha. Purposive sampling was employed due to time and budget constraints. Data were collected using a self-developed questionnaire covering demographics, medical history, lifestyle factors, and diabetes status. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics summarized the demographic characteristics, while chi-square tests assessed associations between diabetes status and various factors. Multivariate logistic regression identified independent predictors of diabetes.

Results: Among the 150 participants, 58 were diagnosed with diabetes, resulting in a prevalence rate of 38%. Of the diabetic individuals, 62% were male and 38% were female. The age group with the highest prevalence was 50-60 years (38%), followed by those above 60 years (33%) and 40-50 years (29%). A significant number of diabetic participants were obese (43%) or extremely obese (5%). Additionally, 74% of diabetic individuals had hypertension, and 40% had ischemic heart disease. Lifestyle analysis revealed that 59% had irregular dietary habits and 81% led a sedentary lifestyle. Among diabetic participants, 60% had controlled diabetes while 40% had uncontrolled diabetes.

Conclusion: The study found a 38% prevalence of diabetes among individuals aged 40 and above, with a higher prevalence in males and those aged 50-60 years. Obesity, hypertension, and ischemic heart disease were significantly associated with diabetes. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including lifestyle modifications and regular screening, to manage and prevent diabetes in this population.

Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 Diabetes, Prevalence, Obesity, Hypertension, Ischemic Heart Disease, Lifestyle Factors, Cross-Sectional Study, Sargodha, Public Health.