Affluent Indians have type 2 diabetes

The highest prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus in India occurs in the upper socio-economic group.Researchers from India conducted a study on 1112 adults residing in affluent neighbourhoods with an average monthly income of around Rs. 18,000 to determine the prevalence of diabetes. They found that 21 percent of affluent adults have type II diabetes, the highest figures from India so far. The prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance was found to be 18 percent. It was significantly higher among males and among older age groups. The prevalence of obesity and overweight amongst the study participants was 32 percent and 43 percent, respectively, and 87 percent of the volunteers had central obesity. The researchers observed that the high body mass index, waist-hip ratio, and elevated triglycerides were associated with a significant risk of both type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance. The reason for the increasing obesity was lack of exercise, which was reflected by a sedentary lifestyle. The prevalence of diabetes in affluent Indians is exceedingly high and is on the rise. The findings emphasise the need for early screening and aggressive measures for the prevention of diabetes in high-risk populations, like affluent Indians.

DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.

Advertisement