Common complications of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: a record- based study in northern UAE

Diabetes is a chronic disease that elevates blood glucose levels, leading to complications affecting the heart, nerves, eyes, and kidneys. Type 2 diabetes, the most common form in adults, results from insulin resistance or impaired insulin production. A record-based study at Thumbay University Hospital analyzed 334 type 2 diabetic patients using a standardized proforma focused on socio-demographic variables. The study found that cardiovascular disease (CVD) was the most prevalent complication, especially in the 41-60 age group (63.1%), compared to 60+ (35.3%). Gender analysis revealed that CVD was 10% more common in males, while nephropathy was 10% higher in females. Diet was significantly linked to CVD, and smoking increased the risk, with 38.1% of diabetic smokers developing CVD. Regional differences showed that retinopathy, skin conditions, CVD, and neuropathy were more common in the Eastern Mediterranean, while foot ulcers were prevalent in South-East Asia. Additionally, lack of exercise increased the risk of CVD and skin complications. The findings highlight the impact of lifestyle factors, including diet and smoking, on diabetes-related complications.