PREVALENCE OF MICROVASCULAR AND MACROVASCULAR COMPLICATIONS IN DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with a rising global prevalence, currently affecting over 476 million adults. It is strongly associated with both microvascular and macrovascular complications that significantly contribute to morbidity, disability, and healthcare costs. Timely identification and management of these complications are essential to prevent long-term adverse outcomes and improve patient quality of life.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of microvascular and macrovascular complications in patients diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus and to assess associated clinical risk factors.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Internal Medicine, CMH Lahore, from October 2024 to March 2025. A total of 83 adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes mellitus were included. Data were collected using a structured proforma, covering demographics (age, gender), clinical history (duration of diabetes, HbA1c level, hypertension, smoking status), and physical activity levels. The presence of microvascular (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy) and macrovascular (coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, cerebrovascular disease) complications was assessed through clinical history and record review. Data were analyzed using SPSS v27, and associations were tested using chi-square with significance set at p<0.05.

Results: Of the 83 patients, 45 (54.2%) were male and 38 (45.8%) female, with a mean age of 47.3 ± 10.2 years. The average duration of diabetes was 8.5 ± 4.7 years, and the mean HbA1c level was 8.2% ± 1.5%. Hypertension was observed in 62.7%, and 42.2% were smokers. A total of 74.7% had at least one complication. Microvascular complications were seen in 53%: retinopathy (32.5%), neuropathy (26.5%), and nephropathy (21.7%). Macrovascular complications affected 32.5%: coronary artery disease (14.5%), peripheral vascular disease (9.6%), and cerebrovascular disease (8.4%).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates a high prevalence of both microvascular and macrovascular complications among patients with diabetes mellitus, with significant associations to poor glycemic control, hypertension, smoking, and prolonged disease duration. These findings reinforce the urgent need for early screening and integrated management strategies in routine diabetes care.