Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus and Its Risk Factors Among Police Officers of Batticaloa Division

Introduction: Police officers face unique occupational challenges that may increase their risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study was carried out to find the prevalence of diabetes and other cardio-metabolic risk factors in this group.
Methods: This was a cross‑sectional study covering 124 police officers of Batticaloa division. A pre‑tested questionnaire was used for collecting data by medical personnel. Anthropometric, biochemical measurements and definitions of risk factors were carried out using standard techniques. SPSS statistical software was used to analyze the data, and association between risk factors and diabetes was assessed using the Person chi-square test.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 46.3 years (SD 9.47). The majority (87.09%) were males.  The prevalence of T2DM was 22.58% and of pre-diabetes status was 24.5%. Family history of T2DM was noted in 34.7% of subjects. The prevalence of central obesity was 61.1% and of hypertension was 44.35%. According to the National Cholesterol Education Program criteria, metabolic syndrome was detected in 10.4% of the subjects in this study. T2DM was found in 53.84 % of regular smokers while only 28.78% of non-smokers had DM. The association between diabetes and pre-diabetes with other risk factors were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Limited sample size and/or genetic predominance would be a reason for the statistical discordance with the available evidence. This study highlights the increased prevalence of risk factors of T2DM and provides insights for targeted interventions within law enforcement institutions.