Prevalence and risk factors for self-reported diabetes among adult men and women in Kerala

Pages: 615-618
Sandeep G. (Department of Demography, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala )

With favourable conditions for population ageing, the problem of morbidity burden due to chronic diseases may also be increasing in Kerala. Kerala has a dubious distinction as the ‘diabetes capital’ in the country. This paper examined the distribution of women and men aged 20-49 years according the diabetes status and also identified the major risk factors of diabetes in Kerala. The data were obtained from National Family Health Survey 2005-06 (NFHS 3). Bivariate and multivariate techniques are used in the analyses. Prevalence of Diabetes was 4688/ 100 000 among men and 2953/100 000 among women in Kerala. Weekly and daily fish intake contributed to a significantly higher risk of diabetes among both women and men. Risks of diabetes increased with increased BMI, age and wealth status of both women and men. Daily consumption of pulse/beans or fruits was associated with a significantly reduced risk of diabetes among women, whereas non-significant inverse associations were observed in the case of men. Health promotion campaigns that emphasize healthy eating and exercise are needed to encourage healthier lives.