Waist Circumference and Waist–Hip Ratio as Markers of Undiagnosed Diabetes and Prediabetes in the Community Setting of Aligarh - A Cross-sectional Study

Context: Rising rates of central obesity are closely linked to insulin resistance, often masking a hidden burden of undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes. This study investigates their association to improve early detection and prevent chronic metabolic complications in asymptomatic populations. Aim: This study aims to determine the association of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes and prediabetes with waist circumference and waist-hip ratio in the family members of a diabetic patient. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted in our field practice area (Urban Health Training Center and Rural Health Training Center) among the family members of a diabetic patient. Subjects and Methods: In this study, the family members of a diabetic patient aged 18 years and over (inclusion criteria) were administered the ADA risk score test. Of the 400 participants with a score of 5 or above, those with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% were tested for fasting blood glucose (FBS) for diagnosis confirmation. Statistical Analysis: The Chi-square test was applied to determine the association of undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes with waist circumference and waist-hip ratio. SPSS version 20 was used for the data analysis. Results: The association of prediabetes and undiagnosed diabetes with abnormal waist circumference was statistically significant when compared with normal in males, while with abnormal waist-hip ratio, the association was not statistically significant in both males and females. Conclusion: Central obesity may be regarded as a marker of undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes. Hence, lifestyle changes should be incorporated to prevent prediabetes and diabetes.