Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Diabetes mellitus, one of the oldest diseases of mankind, is increasing in prevalence, and undergoing transition as a disease of urban to disease of rural areas. Aims & Objectives: The study aims to screen the study population for diabetes mellitus and its risk factors in a village.
Materials and Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in a village (Chuchukonda) of Visakhapatnam district. Systematic random sampling was done and every 10th household of the village was screened. All the members of the household were examined clinically and subjected for fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar.
Results: Total population covered was 260, of which 134 were males and 126 were females. Majority (87%) belong to backward community, and 50% were illiterates. 16% lead sedentary life. 12% of the males were alcoholics. 19% were overweight and 48% had chronic energy deficiency. Majority of the study population had mixed diet. 13 (5%) from the study population were tested positive for diabetes. Among those testing positives, median age of diabetics was 40.5 years. 69.2% had symptoms of diabetes mellitus. 15% had family history of diabetes mellitus, 38.5% had hypertension, 23% were overweight, 31% of diabetics were sedentary and 38.5% had other co morbid illnesses. Conclusion: 13 (5%) from the study population tested positive for diabetes. Among those testing positive, median age of diabetics was 40.5yrs. 69.2% had the symptoms of diabetes mellitus, 15% had family history of diabetes mellitus and 38.5% had hypertension. Healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight and avoiding tobacco use could prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.