A Descriptive Study to Assess the Prevalence of Fungal Infections among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension and Their Risk Factors in a Community of Delhi

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic patients are at higher risk of various health
problemsincluding fungal infections. Fungal infections are taken less
seriously but if not identified and treated promptly, may lead to resistant
infections, further complications and impaired quality of life.
Objectives: To assess the prevalence of fungal infections among diabetic
patients and risk factors of hypertension and diabetes mellitus
Methods: A descriptive survey research design was used. The study was
conducted among people residing in a selected area of Delhi. A purposive
sampling technique was used to collect 313 samples. A structured
interview schedule was used to collect the data,. Permission was
obtained from local authorities. An informed consent was obtained prior
to study participation. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics.
Results: 28.1% of people are suffering from diabetes, and out of those
only 88.6 % of people are taking medication. A total of 90.9% of diabetic
participants had a fungal infection. Out of that, 18.7 % had fungal
infections more than once a month,33.7 % were not taking any treatment
for fungal infection, 31.2% were taking home and natural remedies,
22.5 % were using topical antifungal creams (some containing steroids)
or suppositories and 12.5% were taking oral anti-fungal medication.
Conclusion: Diabetic patients have increased susceptibility to various
infections, including fungal infections emphasising the need for
comprehensive research and effective management strategies. This
study highlights the need for effective preventive strategieswhich could
significantly reduce healthcare costs and improve patients’ quality of life.

How to cite this article:
John N, Rani S, Bhattarcharya S, Negi A. A
Descriptive Study to Assess the Prevalence of
Fungal Infections among Patients with Diabetes
Mellitus and Hypertension and Their Risk
Factors in a Community of Delhi. J Commun
Dis. 2025;57(1):1-8.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202501