An Epidemiological Investigation of Diabetes in Tribal Area

Context: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases in the world and a modern threat to public health. India has been termed as the 'Diabetes Capital' of the world. The Indian scenario shows a steady increase in the prevalence of diabetes both in urban and rural areas as reported by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The tribal areas pose an equal risk with the changes in their life-style, however this aspect has not been explored extensively. Aims: To study the prevalence and epidemiological determinants of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the rural tribal area. Setting and design: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Tembha village, a tribal village in Taluka Shahapur, District Thane. Methods and material: A total of 568 adults aged 25 years&above were surveyed by questionnaires on demography, current and past dietary habits, social habits and family history. Physical examination and blood glucose measurement was done. Statistical analysis used: Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 15.0. Results: 568 subjects were studied. 296 (52.1%) were males and 272 (47.9%) were females. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 4.4% and that of impaired glucose tolerance was 1.2%. Significant association was found with risk factors like age, tobacco, alcohol addiction, obesity and hypertension. Independent risk factors like age over 40 years, obesity and hypertension were found statistically significant with logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: The present study shows a high prevalence of diabetes in tribal areas. Tribal diabetes should be addressed as a problem to curb the epidemic of diabetes.