TB-diabetes co-morbidity and its associated risk factors among patients attending a healthcare facility in Bhubaneswar: a cross-sectional study

Tuberculosis and diabetes have a bi-directional alliance with significant morbidity and delayed treatment outcome. 

In this study, we have studied the frequency of TB and diabetes co-morbidity and analyzed the concurrent adverse conditions among patients attending a healthcare facility in Bhubaneswar.

We enrolled 2062 participants attending the Dept. of TB & Chest Diseases at Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar, categorized as patients suffering from TB, diabetes and TB-diabetes. Socio-demographic and clinical profile, risk factors, previous treatment of TB, type of TB, diabetes, etc., were documented. Descriptive statistics computed the frequency with 95% CI. Logistic regression was executed to assess the association between co-morbidity and various risk factors expressed as adjusted odd ratio.

The overall frequency of TB is 34% (713), diabetes is 33% (686), and TB-diabetes is 6% (134). More male patients were having TB, DM and TB-DM than female patients. Respondents who were alcoholic [AOR 10.62 (5.44–20.76)], smokers [AOR 11.40 (6.55–19.82)], BMI < 18.5 [AOR 13.97 (1.75–111.51)], age > 46 years [AOR 19.69 (7.44–52.16)], and daily wage workers [AOR 1.78 (0.92–3.45)] had higher chances of having TB-DM co morbidity.

The frequency of co-morbid cases of DM and TB in this study was high. It is essential to have bi-lateral screening of TB and diabetes patients for both DM and TB, respectively. The intensified attempts in examining and treating the co-morbid cases can further reduce the incidence in a community. Strategies to provide appropriate care are required for patients with co-morbid conditions.