Abstract

There has been substantial rise in prevalence in India in the recent years and data on prevalence in rural areas of north India is scarce. Objective: To assess the prevalence of Diabetes mellitus in rural population aged thirty years and above, and to assess distribution of risk factors among the population in rural area of Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh. Methods: This community based cross sectional study was carried out on 500 subjects selected by systematic random sampling in adults of 30 years and above from ten villages of the rural field practice area from from Sept 2021 to Aug 2022. Diabetes status was assessed by fasting capillary plasma glucose examination using One Touch Johnson and Johnson glucometer. Results - The prevalence rate of Diabetes Mellitus was found to be 12.2% (known cases of diabetes- 8.4% while newly diagnosed diabetics- 3.8%). On multiple logistic regression analysis, positive family history, history of alcohol consumption, low physical activity, history of hypercholesterolemia, central obesity and high perceived stress level were found to be independently influencing the risk of diabetes. Conclusion- There is a high prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in rural areas and the present study has further substantiated the association of various modifiable risk factors with diabetes. Effective intervention measures if applied at this stage can help to prevent impact of the disease on the individual and community.

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