Determination of Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference in Type II Diabetes Mellitus in Patients at Thika Level 5 Hospital

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a universal health problem due to its chronic nature severity of complications mobility and mortality. BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person^’s body mass for a given height using Waist Circumference to assess abdominal fat. A high waist circumference or a greater level of abdominal fat is associated with increased risk for chronic diseases like Type II diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the body mass index and waist circumference in Type II diabetes mellitus patients attending Thika Level 5 hospital in relation to age, gender and social economic status. A descriptive cross sectional study design was employed. The study targeted patients’ age 36-60 years, with a study sample of 117 diabetic patients. Weight and height were measured using a weighing machine and height meter respectively and BMI calculated. A tape measure was used to take the waist circumference. There was no strong relationship between the body mass index and waist circumference in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. We recommend that new ways of evading sedentary lifestyle and exercising should be embraced.