Publication:

Prevalence of complications and comorbidities among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and their association with glycemic control and duration of diabetes: a cross-sectional study from Kerala, India

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with microvascular and macrovascular complications that significantly increase morbidity and mortality. Understanding the prevalence of these complications and their association with glycemic control and duration of diabetes is essential for improving long-term outcomes.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 70 adults aged 35–65 years with T2DM attending a tertiary care outpatient clinic in Kerala, India. Data on demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory parameters were collected using a structured proforma. Glycemic status was assessed using fasting blood sugar, postprandial blood sugar, and HbA1c. Diabetic neuropathy was evaluated using vibration perception threshold, peripheral arterial disease using ankle-brachial index, and diabetic retinopathy by fundoscopic examination. Associations between complications, comorbidities, glycemic control, and duration of diabetes were analyzed using chi-square tests.

Results The mean age of participants was 53.6±8.4 years, with males comprising 82.9%. The prevalence of diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, and peripheral arterial disease was 71.4%, 30%, and 7.1%, respectively. Obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia were present in 65.7%, 48.6%, and 64.3% of participants, respectively. Poor glycemic control (HbA1c≥7%) was observed in 75.7%. A significant association was noted between duration of diabetes and retinopathy (p=0.003), while glycemic control showed no significant association with most variables.

Conclusions A high burden of microvascular complications and cardiometabolic comorbidities was observed among adults with T2DM. Longer duration of diabetes was significantly associated with retinopathy, emphasizing the need for early screening, optimal glycemic control, and comprehensive risk factor management.