Comparison of clinical features, complication profile, and achievement of guideline targets in early- and late-onset type 2 diabetes patients from North India

Abstract

The prevalence of diabetes in young people is rising in India. The risk factors are high body mass index, lack of physical activity, and a positive family history. Young patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at a higher risk of longer disease duration and enhanced risk for chronic complications. We have studied the difference between early- and late-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus with respect to various glycemic and non-glycemic parameters. This is an observational cross-sectional study conducted from November 2018 to October 2019. A total of 5142 patients were included in the study. The demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical information was obtained from the record of the patients. The number of patients diagnosed before 40 years of age was 1574 and 3568 patients after 40 years of age. There was female preponderance, 75.7% of the study subjects were from the urban area, and 60% had an income of < 2 lakh rupees per annum. Two-third (77%) of the patients were either overweight or obese. Significantly higher proportion of patients achieved glycemic and blood pressure targets in the early-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus group. The younger group had higher weight and body mass index, strong family history of diabetes, and more severe dyslipidemia. The comorbid conditions were significantly higher in the older age group. Our study has revealed that about one-third of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients are diagnosed before 40 years of age. The younger patients are more obese. Two-third (73%) of these patients have uncontrolled diabetes.