ROLE OF STRESS IN DIABETES, HYPERTENSION AND ASTHMA

Abstract

Background: Diabetes and hypertension are risk factors for stroke, heart disease, and death and are a public health concern worldwide, including in India. Additionally, socioeconomic status is linked to higher stress levels among Indian subjects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential contribution of stress to the high prevalence of diabetes and hypertension and the low prevalence of asthma.  
Methods: 250 participants who visited the Indian healthcare facility were evaluated for the study. The prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and asthma as well as the individuals' knowledge of the disorders and how to manage them were evaluated. Additionally, the individuals' experiences with stress and the kinds of stress they encountered were evaluated. 
Results: The study found that 12% (n=30) of the participants had diabetes, with the highest prevalence in the 40–60 age range. Additionally, 46.8% (n=117) of the participants had hypertension, with the highest occurrence in the >40 age range. In every age group, the prevalence of asthma was reduced. Sixty percent (n=150) of the study participants reported leading stressful lives.  
Conclusion: Indian persons have a high prevalence of both diabetes and hypertension. Nonetheless, the prevalence of asthma is low, and many afflicted individuals are not aware that they have diabetes and hypertension. The high prevalence of these morbid illnesses among Indian individuals is largely due to their everyday exposure to stress.