Diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia: A detailed analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic atherosclerosis is a heterogeneous condition, and that dyslipidemia is only one aspect of the pathophysiology. However, dyslipidemia is the most readily measured and, at the present time, the most readily treated aspect of the problem. The occurrence of dyslipidemia can be reduced by good glycemic control. However poor awareness and other socio-economic factors is a major concern and pose a major hindrance in controlling blood sugar levels. Objective: This study was conducted to study the dyslipidemia pattern in diabetic patients and its association with other factors. Methods: The study included 500 subjects and was divided into two groups: Group 1(Diabetic) included 276 patients and Group 2 (Non-diabetic) included 224 patients. The study patients were screened using a pretested structured questionnaire. Fasting plasma glucose and serum lipid profile (cholesterol, TG, HDL) were estimated in automated analyzer (Erba Manheim EM 200). Results: In the current study, all characteristics of diabetes were correlated with each parameter and it was found that disproportionate body mass index, high waist girth was correlated with incidence of dyslipidemia. The education levels and financial background of the subjects were also studied and it was found to correlate well with diabetic dyslipidemia. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of dyslipidemia in diabetic patients can reduce the morbidity and mortality due to the disease.