Emerging Comorbidity of Diabetes and Hypertension Among Young Adults in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Abstract
Background: The dual burden of diabetes and hypertension is increasingly affecting younger populations in low- and middle-income countries, yet data on this comorbidity among young adults in Bangladesh remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictors of coexisting diabetes and hypertension in young adults attending a tertiary hospital in Dhaka. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2023 at BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka. A total of 210 young adults aged 18–35 years with a diagnosis of diabetes and/or hypertension were included through consecutive sampling. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, clinical, and biochemical data were collected using structured interviews, physical examinations, and laboratory tests. Data were analyzed using Stata v17. Descriptive statistics summarized key variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of comorbidity. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 210 participants, 84 (40.0%) had both diabetes and hypertension, 92 (43.8%) had diabetes only, and 34 (16.2%) had isolated hypertension. Obesity was found in 25.7%, dyslipidemia in 62.9%, and low physical activity in 48.6% of participants. Factors independently associated with comorbidity included obesity (aOR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1.35–4.68, p=0.003), low physical activity (aOR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.08–3.96, p=0.022), high perceived stress (aOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.01–3.20, p=0.046), and a family history of both conditions (aOR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.50–5.34, p=0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of coexisting diabetes and hypertension among young adults in this urban Bangladeshi population is alarmingly high. Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, psychosocial stress, and genetic predisposition were key contributors. Early screening and integrated lifestyle interventions are urgently needed to mitigate long-term health risks in this vulnerable age group.
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