A survey revealed that 14% of people in rural areas in Dhaka and Mymensingh divisions are affected by diabetes, with a higher rate observed in cities.
The survey was conducted by the Centre for Global Health Research, Diabetic Association of Bangladesh, and the Non-Communicable Disease Control Branch of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in eight upazilas of Dhaka and Mymensingh from August 2022 to August 2023.
It revealed that 26% of these patients seek treatment at government hospitals.
The survey included 11,000 people aged 25-65 years.
National Diabetes Awareness Day is observed on Wednesday, with this year's theme being “Now is the time to prevent diabetes.”
Additionally, it marks the 68th foundation day of Bangladesh Diabetic Society. Various organizations, including the Diabetic Association, are conducting programs throughout the day.
The survey indicates that 70% of people in these two categories are at risk of diabetes, and 14% of those in rural areas are already suffering from the condition. The infection rate is reported to be higher among urban residents.
Further findings from the survey show that 33.2% of those diagnosed with diabetes in these two categories are aged 25-35 years, 25.6% are aged 36-45 years, 21.5% are aged 46-55 years, and 19.7% are aged 56-65 years.
About 29.9% of the respondents used tobacco, 67% do not engage in physical work, 98.9% do not consume five types of vegetables and fruits daily, and 20.6% have a family history of diabetes.
Dr Biswajit Bhowmik, the project director of the Centre for Global Health Research, commented on the survey, saying: "I have found that only 20% of people with diabetes are under control. It is not only in Bangladesh but also in many neighbouring countries that 20-25% of people can control the disease.”
Professor Md Faruque Pathan, director (Academy) of Birdem General Hospital, mentioned that statistics show among those suffering from diabetes for more than 10 years, 30-40% experience heart disease, 35% face kidney and eye problems. These complications increase patient costs and sometimes lead to death.
He added: "Due to a high-fat diet, the risk of diabetes increases by 11-26%, and lack of physical activity increases the risk by 20%. Additionally, 18-40% in foods with added sugars and 26% in soft drinks contribute to the risk."
