Gender, age, and body weight of diabetes mellitus among patients visiting community health centers in West Nusa Tenggara: A descriptive study

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a significant global health issue that has escalated, leading to serious implications for public health. This disease not only increases the risk of long-term health complications but also has a considerable economic impact due to treatment costs and lost productivity. The research findings can inform the development of targeted health policy recommendations and more effective prevention programs.

Purpose: To describe gender, age, and body weight of diabetes mellitus among patients visiting community health centers in West Nusa Tenggara.

Method: A descriptive study design conducted at several community health centers across the province to reflect geographic and demographic diversity and ensure the results represent actual community conditions. The study population included all patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus at these centers. Data collection involved patient medical records, which provided demographic information such as age and gender, medical history, and laboratory data related to diabetes mellitus.

Results: The age group 57-66 is identified as the most vulnerable, making up 38.19% of the total diabetes patient population. The 47-56 age group also shows a significant risk, with lower risks observed in the 37-46 and 67-76 age groups. Notably, there are no diabetes patients in the 77-86 and 87-96 age groups, indicating a lower risk for these ages. Gender analysis reveals that females are at a higher risk, comprising 75.88% of the diabetes patient population, while males account for only 24.12%. In terms of body weight, individuals in the 50-59 and 60-69 kg weight groups are at high risk, representing 64.82% and 35.18%, respectively, of the total diabetes patients. These findings suggest that individuals weighing over 50 kg have a higher risk of developing diabetes.

Conclusion: The age range of 57-66 is the most vulnerable group to diabetes, with the highest number of patients. Among this group, females tend to be more susceptible to diabetes, especially those with a body weight above 50 kg.