Central Obesity and Screen-Detected Hyperglycaemia in Urban India: A Primary Care Perspective from a Low and Middle-Income Country

Abstract

Background- Central obesity is an important risk factor for impaired glucose metabolism and type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly among urban populations in low- and middle-income countries. Early identification of individuals at risk of hyperglycaemia using simple anthropometric measures may strengthen opportunistic screening at the primary healthcare level. The study aims to assess the association between central obesity and screen-detected hyperglycaemia among adults attending an urban primary health care facility in northern India. Materials & Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 adults attending an urban primary health care facility in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. Data regarding socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and random blood sugar levels were collected using a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire. Waist circumference and body mass index were assessed using standard procedures. Correlation analysis and multivariable logistic regression were performed to determine predictors of hyperglycaemia. Results: The mean waist circumference and body mass index were 91.53 ± 14.26 cm and 27.02 ± 6.27 kg/m², respectively. Random blood sugar showed a significant positive correlation with waist circumference (r=0.200, p=0.014), body mass index (r=0.181, p=0.027), and systolic blood pressure (r=0.199, p=0.015). Multivariable logistic regression identified body mass index and systolic blood pressure as significant predictors of hyperglycaemia. Conclusion:  Central obesity demonstrated a significant association with screen-detected hyperglycaemia and other cardiometabolic risk factors. Waist circumference demonstrated a modest positive correlation with random blood sugar but was not independently associated with hyperglycaemia after adjustment.