Gender-related Difference in Socioeconomic and Behavioral Factor in Relation to BP and BMI of Type 2 Diabetic Workers from Match Factories and Fireworks in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

The prevalence of diabetes has been steadily increasing in workers of Match factories and Fireworks in Sivakasi area.
We investigated the difference between male and female diabetic patients in terms of impact of socioeconomic, behavioral and
other risk factors like blood pressure (BP) and body mass index (BMI). Methods: Total 112 persons (64 male and 48 female)
with type 2 diabetes were selected for this study, from various hospitals situated in Sivakasi area. Socioeconomic status (SES)
and other behavioral factors were ascertained by physical examination and interview. Result: There was significant difference
between male and female diabetics only in certain factors. SES was found significant and inversely related to physical activity,
marital status, food habit, duration and systolic blood pressure (SBP) in female diabetics. In male, these association were weaker
or absent, when education level was considered. But in income level, significant differences were found in SBP and detected
age. Statistical significance was found between behavioral and other risk factors in both male and female diabetics. Conclusion:
Physical inactivity leads to high BMI and increased SBP. Due to lack of knowledge, these diabetic patients did not avail any
type of medical attention for treating diabetes till they got other complications due to untreated diabetes.