HbA1c level increases in Mumbai from 8.19 per cent to 8.22 per cent during January to March 2020: IDCI

People part of assessment in Mumbai had average age of 53 years, out of which 55 per cent were male, 45 per cent were female

The latest findings of India Diabetes Care Index (IDCI) suggest that glycosylated haemoglobin or HbA1c level increased from 8.19 per cent to 8.22 per cent during January to March 2020 as compared to the previous quarter in Mumbaikars. The rise in HbA1C level comes at a time when medical studies are pointing towards an increased risk for severe complications arising from COVID-19 in people living with diabetes.[1] The India Diabetes Care Index, a part of the ‘Impact India: 1000-Day Challenge’ programme by Novo Nordisk Education Foundation studies the blood glucose levels across cities through various parameters.

The HbA1c test indicates the average blood glucose level over a period of three months and is considered as one of the best recommended indicators of long-term blood glucose control. People who were part of the assessment in Mumbai had an average age of 53 years, out of which 55 per cent were male and 45 per cent were female. Furthermore, the average postprandial glucose level was 227 mg / dl in the quarter and the corresponding average fasting glucose level was 162 mg / dl. 

People living with diabetes are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications if they get infected with COVID-19 and this may even worsen if their diabetes is not managed well. Also, in the long run, it should be noted that 1 per cent reduction in HbA1c reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications including the risk of heart failure by 16 per cent and the risk of heart attack by 14 per cent. Older adults and people with pre-existing medical conditions like hypertension, heart disease, pulmonary disorders and obesity related conditions are also at a higher risk of experiencing serious complications due to COVID-19.[2]

Speaking on the high HbA1C level in the city and challenges faced by the patients during the lockdown, Dr Rajiv Kovil, Consultant Diabetologist, Mumbai, said, “People living with diabetes have to be particularly vigilant about their health and well-being in the present lockdown due to COVID-19. Not only are they at a greater risk of developing severe complications but COVID-19 can also lead to more fatalities in people with diabetes. A thorough health regime must be followed so that blood glucose levels are kept in check. In addition to the medications, under the given situation, it is advisable to follow indoor physical exercises in order to manage diabetes effectively.

Currently, more than 77 million people in India are living with diabetes. To provide them with optimal care and help them in managing their condition better during the lockdown, the Government of India has stated that all known / diagnosed people with diabetes will receive regular supply of medicines for up to three months through ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) or SHCs (Sub Health Centres) on prescription.

Talking about the Impact India programme, Dr Anil Shinde, Trustee, Novo Nordisk Education Foundation said, “Through the India Diabetes Care index, we aim to raise awareness on status of diabetes care in India. The latest findings suggest that the status of diabetes management should be paid close attention to because if diabetes is well-managed, the risk of serious illness from COVID-19 can be reduced to the same as that in general population. People with diabetes should also take strict preventive measures so that they can minimise the risk from COVID-19 and are safe in the lockdown period.”

People with diabetes should have an adequate stock of medications and supplies for monitoring blood glucose at home. They should store enough stock of simple carbohydrates like honey, jam and candies. They should also store Glucagon and ketone strips, in case of poor glycaemic control (low or high blood glucose levels). People with diabetes should also watch for emergency warning signs like difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion or inability to arouse, bluish lips or face. In case they develop or suspect to have COVID-19 symptoms, people with diabetes are advised to get medical attention immediately by calling the hospital or personal physician and explaining their condition.[3]

The ‘Impact India: 1000-Day Challenge’ programme was launched in 2018 to address the issue of sub optimally controlled diabetes in India. The ambition of the programme is to reduce the national average of HbA1c by 1 per cent, which can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications significantly in India.  Based on big data analytics, iDCI has been providing a real-time view of the average HbA1c in India across select cities. Under the Impact India programme, digital platforms are being leveraged to partner with healthcare practitioners (doctors and paramedics) to evolve and implement an approach to diabetes care appropriate for India. iDCI is a dynamic tool that not only tracks the status of diabetes care but also helps to increase awareness, motivate and sensitise the healthcare professionals (HCPs) and society. The IMPACT India programme will continue its three-pronged approach through interactions with healthcare practitioners (HCPs), societal / patient engagement and monitoring.

References:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7118626/, https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/ajpendo.00124.2020

[2] https://www.novonordisk.co.in/patients/diabetes-care/Diabetes-care-in-special-situations/Diabetes-and-COVID-19.html

[3] https://www.novonordisk.co.in/content/dam/India/AFFILIATE/www-novonordisk-co-in/Home/Patients/covid-19/COVID-19-Q-and-A.pdf