Undiagnosed diabetes mellitus: a survey of dental outpatients in a tertiary hospital

Abstract

Background: Most dentists depend on the history given by the patients when assessing their medical status. However, quite a number of these patients may be unaware of their medical condition, which may be significant in the planning of their dental treatment. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes mellitus and the factors associated with hyperglycemia among patients presenting at a tertiary Dental Clinic in Nigeria. Methodology. Their blood samples were assessed for glucose by means of a glucometer (Accu-Chek® Active, Roche diagnostic). Random blood glucose (RBS) equal to or greater than 200mg/dl was considered diabetic. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Nine (4.4%) of the 203 patients seen were diabetic with a male to females’ ratio of 1:2. Gender, socioeconomic status, body mass index, family history of diabetes was not significantly associated with abnormal blood glucose. However, there was a statistically significant difference in the mean ages of patients with normal blood glucose (39.2+12.4) and diabetes mellitus (55.5+16.9) (p=.000). About 51.2% (104) of the subjects have never checked their blood sugar. Conclusion: This study showed that patients' account of their systemic status is not always reliable. Thus, it will be of immense benefit if dentist seeks symptom/sign that may aid in identifying those at risk or those that are already diabetic. Furthermore, routine screening for diabetes mellitus amongst patients aged 45 years and above may reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease.