Abstract
BACKGROUND: Diabetes and hypertension pose significant public health challenges, especially among underprivileged urban populations. This study estimated the prevalence of these conditions and assessed associated cardiovascular disease (CVD) lifestyle risk factors among adults in an underprivileged urban community in Bangalore, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to September 2022 in an underprivileged community in Bangalore, involving 1,298 participants. Data were collected through house-to-house surveys using a structured questionnaire and clinical measurements, including blood sugar, blood pressure, and anthropometric parameters. Logistic regression was used to identify associations between sociodemographic factors and health outcomes. RESULTS: The prevalence of diabetes and hypertension was 9.3% (95% CI: 7.8%-10.9%) and 19.1% (95% CI: 16.9%-21.2%), respectively, among the 1,298 participants. Diabetes prevalence was higher in females (13.1% CI: 10.6%-15.6%) than in males (4.9% CI: 3.1%-6.7%), while hypertension was common in older adults, especially those aged 60 and above (63.6% CI: 54.6%-72.6%). High body mass index (BMI > 30) showed significant associations with both conditions (OR: 1.7 for diabetes, OR: 1.4 for hypertension). Frequent consumption of tobacco, red meat, bakery items, aerated drinks, and central obesity were also linked to these conditions. A considerable proportion of diabetes (7.1% CI: 5.8%-8.4%) and hypertension (21.6% CI: 9.2%-23.9%) cases were undiagnosed before the study. CONCLUSION: The study reveals a high prevalence of diabetes and hypertension among the urban poor, with many undiagnosed cases. Targeted screening and intervention programs are essential to address modifiable risk factors like diet and obesity, aiming to reduce the CVD burden in similar communities.