Diabetes Risk in an Urban Slum Population in Bangalore, India

Abstract

Background: In India, diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportions. It is advocated to do a universal screening in urban cities as 60% of Indian diabetics are undiagnosed. Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) is a reliable, effective, and economic tool for screening in a community. Purpose: The objectives of this study were (a) to estimate the risk of diabetes in an urban slum population using IDRS and (b) to impart health education to those at risk. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken among 300 families in an urban slum in Bangalore, Karnataka, from March to May 2015. A predesigned and pretested questionnaire was administered comprising questions related to age, education, physical activity, family history of diabetes. A one to one intervention was given to the population who had moderate or high risk of developing diabetes mellitus. They were counseled on a healthy lifestyle. Results: Total of 314 participants were included in the study. 150 (47.8%) were males and 164 (52.2%) females. IDRS of 60 and above (high risk) was observed in 220 (70.1%), 30-50 (moderate risk) in 83 (26.4%), and score of <30 (low risk) in only 11 (3.5%) of participants. Statistically significant association was found between IDRS and age, abdominal obesity, physical activity, and family history of diabetes mellitus among participants (P < 0.05). Statistically significant association was also found between physical activity and waist circumference and with socioeconomic status (P < 0.05). Conclusion: IDRS enables healthcare workers for early identification of people with a moderate or high risk of developing diabetes mellitus. These people can, in turn, undergo further blood tests for diagnosis. They also require lifestyle modification counseling by healthcare workers and follow-up on a regular basis.