THE MAGNITUDE OF CHRONIC DIABETES COMPLICATIONS AND THEIR ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG DIABETIC PATIENTS ATTENDING A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a leading non-communicable disease worldwide, with Pakistan ranking third globally in terms of diabetes prevalence. Chronic complications of diabetes impose a significant burden on healthcare systems, leading to increased morbidity, healthcare costs, and reduced quality of life. Despite advancements in treatment, a substantial proportion of patients develop complications that could be mitigated through early diagnosis, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to treatment. Identifying risk factors and their association with complications is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Objective: This study aims to assess the prevalence of chronic diabetes complications and identify key factors contributing to their development in patients attending a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, from September to November 2024. A total of 196 clinically diagnosed type 2 diabetic patients were recruited using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews, and medical records were reviewed for diabetes-related complications. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS-27, with associations evaluated through chi-square and logistic regression tests, considering a p-value <0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: The majority of participants (50.0%) were aged 41–60 years, with 55.6% being female. The most prevalent complications were diabetic eye disease (55.6%) and nephropathy (45.4%), followed by coronary artery disease (30.6%), neuropathy (28.6%), hypertension (28.6%), cerebrovascular accidents (27.0%), and diabetic foot disease (25.5%). A significant association was found between regular physical activity and reduced complication risk (p=0.052). Duration of diabetes showed a strong correlation with coronary artery disease, diabetic foot, and diabetic eye disease (p=0.000), and nephropathy (p=0.002). A weak association was observed between BMI and coronary artery disease (p=0.050), while compliance with medications showed a notable association with coronary artery disease (p=0.066).

Conclusion: Age, lifestyle factors, and medication adherence significantly influence the development of chronic diabetes complications. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and policymakers are essential to enhance early detection, patient education, and comprehensive diabetes management strategies to reduce complications and improve health outcomes.