Publication:

From risk to prevention: diabetes screening in an urban community of Uttara Kannada district

Background Diabetes is rapidly increasing in India due to urbanization, sedentary habits and unhealthy lifestyles. Early identification of high-risk individuals is essential to prevent complications. The Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) is a simple, low-cost tool that can be used in community settings. To assess the risk of type 2 diabetes among adults aged 30–70 years in an urban community using the IDRS and to identify associated socio-demographic and lifestyle factors.

Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out among 448 adults selected through systematic random sampling in an urban field practice area of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. Diabetes risk was categorized as low, moderate or high using the IDRS tool. Associations were tested using chi-square analysis.

Results Older age, sedentary lifestyle, positive family history and increased waist circumference were significantly associated with higher diabetes risk. Central obesity was the strongest predictor.

Conclusions More than half of the study population was at moderate-to-high risk of diabetes. Incorporating IDRS-based screening into primary health care and community programs can help in early detection and prevention.