Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Complications of Diabetes Mellitus in District Buner Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a significant global public health concern, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. The Buner District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, presents a unique demographic and geographical setting for studying the prevalence and chronic complications of DM. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and its chronic complications in the Buner District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and to understand the demographic distribution of the disease. Methods: A comprehensive, area-specific study was conducted from March 2022 to August 2022, involving 753 patients across eight localities in the Buner District. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations at various medical centers. Participants included individuals from both rural and urban areas, with a demographic split of 486 males (64.54%) and 267 females (35.45%). The study also investigated six types of chronic complications associated with DM. Data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2016 and SPSS version 25. Results: The study found that the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the Buner District was significantly high, with a higher incidence in urban areas compared to rural ones. The prevalence of chronic complications of DM varied, with cardiovascular conditions being the most prominent, followed by neuropathy, nephropathy, ocular conditions, and foot diseases. Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of diabetes mellitus and its chronic complications in the Buner District, with urban areas showing a higher incidence. The findings underscore the need for targeted healthcare strategies and interventions in this region to address the growing burden of DM.