Authors: Rabail Javed , Shafqat Zulfiqar , Saima Naz Mohsin , Akkad Rafique , Shagufta Naz

Abstract

Background and Objective: Patients having diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM-2) are increasing all over the world. Early detection could decrease the risk of morbidities in general population. Glycated haemoglobin-A (HbA1C) is not only a reliable screening test for diabetes but also provides an insight in long-term complications related with this disease. Therefore this study was designedto determine the association of HbA1C with clinical symptoms of DM-2 in general, undiagnosed population of Lahore.
Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted for 15 months enrolling 2500 participants from community of Lahore, Punjab. A well-structured questionnaire recorded familial histories and clinical symptoms (if any present) related with DM-2. HbA1C levels were detected by standard methods. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.
Results: HbA1C level > 7% was observed in 1651 (66%) patients who were previously unaware of their diabetic condition. There was a highest positive association of HbA1C status with polyuria [Odds ratio: 2.60 (2.14–3.17)]. No significant association was observed from adjusted odds ratios with hypertension, cardiovascular disease and numbness. When odds ratios were adjusted for all factors, blurred vision, body mass index and age showed a negative association with HbA1C status.
Conclusion: Approximately two third of patients tested positive for diabetes were previously unaware of their status. Earlier detection of prediabetes offers an opportunity to take stringent measures for deferring its progression to diabetes.

Keywords: Glycated Hemoglobin A (HbA1C), Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Undiagnosed.