Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension Among COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study Exploring Associations With Sociodemographic and Biological Factors in Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT) are major global health concerns, with a rising prevalence worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The interplay between these chronic conditions and COVID-19 presents a unique public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Bangladesh. This study aimed to (1) determine the prevalence of DM and HT among individuals affected by COVID-19 pandemic in Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh, and (2) explore associations with sociodemographic and biological factors.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Rajshahi Division of Bangladesh between April and August 2021. Data was collected from 390 COVID-19-positive patients using a structured questionnaire and physical measurements, focusing on sociodemographic and biological factors associated with DM and HT. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant risk factors.

RESULTS

Among participants, 12.05% had DM, 15.89% had HT, and 7.95% had both. Older age ( > 50 years) was significantly associated with higher prevalence of both conditions (p <  0.001). Females were more likely to have DM (16.6% vs. 9.2%), HT (19.2% vs. 13.8%), and both (10.6% vs. 6.3%) than males (p <  0.05). Private or self-employed individuals had a significantly higher risk of both DM and HT (RRR: 7.66, 95% CI: 4.26-12.37, p <  0.001). Obesity (BMI ≥ 25) was linked to increased prevalence of DM (13.2%), HT (21.0%), and both (10.2%). Elevated SBP and DBP were strongly associated with comorbidity (p <  0.001), and tobacco use increased the odds of DM (AOR: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.13-5.29, p =  0.02).

CONCLUSION

Targeted interventions, such as community-based education, improved chronic disease management, and culturally tailored strategies, are recommended to address these conditions effectively. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure and conducting longitudinal research to explore causal pathways will be critical in mitigating the impact of these comorbidities and improving pandemic preparedness in resource-limited settings.