An observation cross sectional study to assess the prevalence of micro vascular complications in diabetes

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is the commonest metabolic disorder and has a high prevalence in India. The prognosis of the diabetic patients largely depends on the complications seen in the natural course of illness. It was decided to undertake observational study to record various complications and the influence of various risk factors.(1) Diabetes mellitus is a long term metabolic disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and relative lack of insulin.(2) Diabetes is a syndrome characterised by chronic hyperglycemia and disturbance of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism associated with absolute or relative deficiencies in insulin secretion and/or insulin action(3). Complications of diabetes The longer duration of diabetes the less controlled of blood sugar levels leads to development of diabetic complications which are divided into microvascular ( damage to small blood vessel) and macrovascular (damage to large blood veseels). • Micro vascular complications: These are Long term complications that affect retina, kidney and nervous system(3). Permanent disability is a common outcome of diabetes, with late complications of diabetes being major determinants for disability. Diabetic eye disease particularly retinopathy, has become a major cause of blindness throughout the world. • Macro vascular complications: Type 2 diabetes can also affect the large blood vessels, causing plaque to eventually build up and potentially leading to a heart attack, stroke or vessel blockage in the legs (peripheral vascular disease) Diabetic foot also occur with higher frequency in diabetes(4,5).