Prevalence and Risk Factors of Pre-hypertension in Diabetes Mellitus Cases of North Indian Population

Abstract

Background: Many studies have reported high frequency of pre-hypertension as well as hypertension in the patients of diabetes mellitus (DM). The important risk factors are duration of diabetes, glycaemic control, dyslipidaemia, obesity, age, microalbuminuria, and some lifestyle related factors. Objectives: This study was designed to find the prevalence of pre-hypertension in North Indian urban DM cases and correlation with dietary habits, demographic profile, HbA1c, obesity, lipid profile, urinary albumin level, tobacco smoking, alcoholism, and physical inactivity. Materils and Methods: DM patients (N=100, ≥18 years), diagnosed as per the criteria of ADA, were recruited. JNC-7 criteria were applied for hypertension. The demographic profile, dietary habits and lifestyle related factors were obtained through questionnaire. Physical examination and laboratory investigation for biochemical parameters were performed and compared with appropriate statistical tool. Results: Prevalence of the Pre-HTN in DM patients was 42% and more in the males. DM with Pre-hypertension had reported significantly higher intake of salt and junk food with increased waist circumference. The urinary albumin level was significantly higher in DM with pre-hypertension. There was significant positive association of tobacco smoking and alcohol intake in development of pre-hypertension. Increased duration of DM, low physical activity and increased BMI were significantly contributing to Pre-hypertension. Dyslipidaemia, especially high Triglycerides(r=0.867) had significantly strong correlation with pre- hypertension in DM patients. Conclusion: Screening strategies for pre-hypertension should be initiated at an early age in the diabetic community. The importance of lifestyle modifications with respect to dietary habits, physical activity, and relaxation techniques needs to be implemented. Keywords: Pre-hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus, Prevalence, Dyslipidaemia, Microalbuminuria, Lifestyle