Association of Comorbidities with Quality of Life among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Urban Meerut: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is frequently associated with multiple comorbidities that adversely affect patients’ quality of life (QoL). Understanding the burden of comorbid conditions and their relationship with QoL is essential for comprehensive diabetes care. Aim & Objectives: To find out the prevalence of comorbidities among patients with T2DM and to determine their association with quality of life. Settings and Design: Cross-sectional study done among Type-2 Diabetes mellitus patients in an urban area of Meerut. Methods and Material: A Community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 350 T2DM patients. Data regarding socio-demographic profile, presence and number of comorbidities were collected. Quality of life assessment was done using standardized Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores. Statistical analysis used: Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U test, and comparison of mean scores across number of comorbidities. Results: Among 350 participants, 67.7% had at least one comorbidity. Obesity (57.4%) was the most common co-morbid condition followed by hypertension (56%). Participants with comorbidities had significantly lower median PCS (50 vs 100), MCS (60 vs 80), and overall QoL scores (60 vs 100) compared to those without comorbidities (p<0.001). Mean QoL scores progressively declined with increasing number of comorbidities. Conclusion: Presence and increasing number of comorbidities significantly impair quality of life among patients with T2DM. Integrated management addressing multiple comorbidities is essential to improve overall wellbeing.