Publication:

Trends in self-reported diabetes prevalence and management: insights from NFHS-4 to NFHS-5

Background Diabetes mellitus is a rapidly increasing non-communicable disease in India, driven by demographic and epidemiological transitions. Understanding changes in prevalence and treatment-seeking behaviour across population is crucial for successful public health planning. This study aimed to assess trends in self-reported diabetes prevalence and treatment-seeking behaviour among men and women in India and to examine socio-demographic variations using data from NFHS-4 (2015-16) and NFHS-5 (2019-21).

Methods This study utilized nationally representative data from NFHS-4 and NFHS-5. The analysis included men aged 15-54 years and women aged 15-49 years. Outcome variables were self-reported diabetes and treatment-seeking behaviour. Sociodemographic characteristics included age, gender, education, marital status, religion, caste/tribe, and wealth index. Descriptive comparative analysis was performed to identify trends across the surveys.

Results The prevalence of self-reported diabetes increased from 1.7% to 2.1% among men and from 1.7% to 1.9% among women between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5. Treatment-seeking behaviour showed a slight decline. Higher prevalence was consistently associated with increasing age, urban residence, and higher wealth status. Individuals aged 35-49 years exhibited the highest burden. Socioeconomic gradients were evident, with wealthier groups showing higher prevalence and better treatment uptake. Women demonstrated higher treatment-seeking behaviour than men across most categories. However, disparities persisted among lower socioeconomic and marginalized groups, particularly in treatment access.

Conclusions Diabetes prevalence in India has increased over time, with notable socio-demographic inequalities in both disease burden and treatment-seeking behaviour. Strengthening early screening, improving awareness, and ensuring equitable access to diabetes care especially among disadvantaged populations are critical to addressing the growing burden.