Over 24 Percent of Bengaluruites are Tested Diabetic Patients

A recent data analysis done by RV Metropolis, the subsidiary of Metropolis Healthcare, India’s Leading Pathology Chain reveals that 24 % of samples tested from Bengaluru have been reported as Diabetic. In order to understand the intensity of the disease, RV Metropolis conducted a comprehensive data study; ahead of World diabetes Day which falls on 14th November. The study included 1,95,162 random samples of people between the age group of 20 and 80 years that were collected for a period of over three years.

Why is HbA1c, The Test Important?

The most critical analysis arising from the study is that only over 16.28% of the samples tested had desirable HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) Levels. Over 24.01% of samples were reported to be having poor glycaemic control and management. HbA1c is an important test because it helps the clinician suggest appropriate lifestyle changes.

For every 1% reduction in results of HbA1c blood tests, the risk of developing eye, kidney, and nerve disease is reduced by 40% while the risk of heart attack is reduced by 14%.

Over 24.68 % of all samples tested for Fasting Blood Sugar were reported to be Diabetes Mellitus and 27% were found to be Pre-diabetic, a borderline condition if unchecked will lead to Diabetes Mellitus.

Interestingly, the percentage of samples tested Diabetic and Borderline were slightly higher for males than that of females. Over 28.67% of Male blood samples of Fasting Blood Sugar were found Diabetic, where as 20.86 % of Women blood samples of Fasting Blood Sugar were found Diabetic.

Explaining more on this, Dr Ravi Kumar, Head, RV Metropolis Healthcare said, “This is an alarming sign for the health of citizens in Bengaluru. The change in lifestyles and faulty food habits is a cause for concern. Prolonged diabetes could lead to life-long and serious complications like cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, foot ulcers, and damage to the eyes. It is important to be aware of your blood sugar levels and regularly monitor your levels to stay in optimal health.”