Complications of diabetes mellitus among patients attending the out-patient department of a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM), a common metabolic disorder, is associated with complications that can affect the quality of life. The current study was taken to study the frequency of complications among DM patients attending Out Patient Department (OPD) of Endocrinology at a tertiary care hospital and to study the association of select socio-demographic factors and select biochemical parameters among patients with complications.Methods: Case record analysis of 250 out patients with DM (Type 1 and 2) in the month of August 2016 was done. Permission from Hospital Administration and Department of Endocrinology was obtained to access records. Socio-demographic details, anthropometry, blood pressure recordings of the past visit, DM duration, laboratory investigations, complications, treatment & other morbidities were noted.Results: Of the 250 patients, 138 (55.2%) were males. Patients with cardiovascular complications, ocular complications, neuropathy, peripheral arterial diseases, nephropathy and cerebrovascular complications were 21.2%, 19.2%, 16.8%, 12.8%, 11.2% and 6.0% respectively. Poor glycemic control (HbA1c>7.5%) was seen in 51.2% of patients with DM related complications. It was noticed that 78.5% of the patients with chronic complications had DM for more than 5 years duration. Logistic regression analysis showed age (≥60 years), gender (males) and serum creatinine levels (>1.2 mg/dl in males and >0.9 mg/dl in females) to be associated with occurrence of complications in patients with DM.Conclusions: Efforts need to be directed at intense glycemic control, strengthening awareness regarding self care, early screening and appropriate management to prevent and minimize complications.