Aventis Pharma Limited, part of the Sanofi Group has released the findings of the SITE (Screening India’s Twin Epidemic) study for Karnataka along with the national results for the eight states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, New Delhi, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
The Sanofi SITE study for Karnataka included close to 2000 patients in the state across Bengaluru, Mangalore, and Mysore.
SIT, is the first cross-sectional study to assess the prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed cases of diabetes and hypertension using a sample size of nearly 16,000 patients who visit General Practitioners and Consulting Physicians in the major Indian cities. The study has surveyed patients across 800 centres mainly in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, New Delhi, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
The objective of the Sanofi SITE study is to quantify the concurrent incidence of diabetes and hypertension and to increase awareness of what is called the ‘Twin Epidemic’ with alarming implications for healthcare in India.
Dr Mohan Badgandi, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Consultant - Head of the Department, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru and Dr S S Iyengar Professor and Head of Department of Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru are the State Coordinators of the Sanofi SITE study in Karnataka.
Sanofi SITE Karnataka data reveals that diabetes and hypertension are twin epidemic, with 17 per cent of those surveyed suffering from both diseases. Furthermore, in nearly 7 per cent of the newly diagnosed cases, the patients did not know that they had diabetes. Shockingly, even amongst the diabetics undergoing treatment, 69 per cent were ‘uncontrolled’ thereby emphasizing the need not only for regular testing but also for greater awareness about the correct treatment regime, stated Dr Mohan Badgandi.
The study showed that 84 per cent hypertensive cases were unable to bring the pressure under control. Around 25 per cent of the hypertension patients suffered from kidney complications. Amongst those screened, 12 per cent had no idea they were suffering from hypertension and were newly diagnosed. These revelations highlight the importance of screening patients for risk factors to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.”
According to Dr Bhaswati Mukherjee, associate director, Medical Affairs Cardio-Metabolism, Sanofi India, “Non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension have a major impact not only on national health but also on the economy. Through the Sanofi SITE study we hope to provide medical professionals with valuable insights on the twin epidemic of diabetes and hypertension. We also want to create awareness amongst them and patients about screening for these diseases regularly. The Sanofi SITE study is a testament of our commitment to disease management and we want to be closely involved in addressing one of India’s key public health issues.”
Dr Shashank Joshi, consultant endocrinologist, Lilavati Hospital and National Coordinator of the study said that the Sanofi SITE National study shows that 60 per cent of the population is suffering from diabetes, hypertension or both. This figure is alarmingly high and not only demands immediate attention but also the adoption of necessary measures.