Prevalence and Determinants of Diabetes Mellitus in Tehsil Khall, District Lower Dir

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by persistent hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, and it is a leading contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Pakistan carries a rapidly increasing diabetes burden, influenced by lifestyle transitions and genetic susceptibility. Objective: This study aimed to (i) determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the population of Tehsil Khall, District Lower Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and (ii) assess key associated factors, particularly age, marital status, and family history of diabetes. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in multiple localities of Tehsil Khall. Using a convenient random sampling approach, 384 participants were enrolled. Data were collected through structured interviews using a pre-designed questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors. Blood glucose levels were measured using a glucometer for diabetes screening and classification. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 25) and Microsoft Excel. Associations between diabetes status and explanatory variables were assessed using cross-tabulation and Pearson’s Chi-square test, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of diabetes was 20.6%, including 7.3% Type I (n=28) and 13.3% Type II (n=51), while 79.4% (n=305) were normoglycemic. Diabetes status showed statistically significant associations with marital status (p=0.003), family history of diabetes (p<0.001), and age group (p<0.001). Higher proportions of both Type I and Type II diabetes were observed among married participants, individuals with a positive family history, and participants aged above 45 years, indicating these as major risk groups in the study area. Conclusion: Diabetes prevalence in Tehsil Khall is substantial, with Type II diabetes being more common than Type I. Age above 45 years, positive family history, and marital status were significantly associated with diabetes. The findings support the need for targeted screening, awareness programs, and preventive strategies focusing on high-risk groups to reduce diabetes burden and complications in Tehsil Khall.Top of Form