Complications in Diabetes: How They Relate to Diabetes Duration

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a major global public health issue, particularly in developing countries, where it exacerbates economic strain and leads to severe complications affecting various organs. This study examines the relationship between the duration of DM and the incidence of complications among patients in Pakistan.

Objective: To investigate the correlation between the duration of Diabetes Mellitus and the prevalence of associated complications in a sample of Pakistani patients, aiming to inform preventive measures and management strategies.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Wah Medical College, Wah Cantt, Pakistan with REC committee approval and adherence to the Declaration of Helsinki. The sample size of 137 patients was determined using the WHO sample size calculator. Participants were selected through non-probability consecutive sampling and included those diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 DM who visited the outpatient and inpatient departments. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes were excluded. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Data collection involved demographic information and comprehensive laboratory tests, including liver function tests, renal function tests, HbA1c levels, random and fasting blood sugar levels, serum electrolytes, and urine analysis for proteins and albumin. Complications were documented as microvascular and macrovascular. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, employing descriptive statistics and inferential statistics such as Chi-squared tests and t-tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study included 137 patients, with 68.80% male and 32.20% female. 81.80% had diabetes for less than ten years, and 18.20% had it for more than ten years. Type 2 DM was predominant, affecting 97.64% of participants. The incidence of microalbuminuria was 15.10% in patients with less than ten years of diabetes and 48.38% in those with a longer duration. Proteinuria occurred in 20.14% of those with a shorter duration and 54.83% with a longer duration. Comorbidities were present in 25.89% of patients with less than ten years of diabetes and 61.29% in those with a longer duration. Symptoms related to DM were reported by 23.74% of patients with a shorter duration and 54.83% of those with a longer duration.

Conclusion: Longer durations of Diabetes Mellitus are associated with higher incidences of microalbuminuria, proteinuria, and other diabetes-related symptoms and comorbidities. These findings underscore the necessity for stringent glycemic control, effective blood pressure management, and comprehensive patient education to prevent the progression of complications. Enhanced diabetes care can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the healthcare burden of this chronic disease.