GLYCEMIC CONTROL AND PREVALENCE OF GASTROPATHIES AND GASTROPARESIS IN PATIENTS OF TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Diabetes mellitus is frequently associated with gastrointestinal motility disorders, with gastropathies and gastroparesis representing significant yet often underdiagnosed complications. These conditions contribute to impaired glycaemic control, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare utilization. Early detection is essential, particularly in regions where local data are limited and structured screening practices are not routinely implemented. Understanding the magnitude of these complications among individuals with type 2 diabetes is therefore crucial for improving targeted clinical management and guiding preventative strategies within local healthcare settings. Objective: To determine the frequency of gastropathies and gastroparesis in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Medicine, Doctors Hospital & Medical Center, Lahore, from August 2024 to February 2025. A total of 150 individuals with type 2 diabetes who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled through consecutive sampling from the outpatient department. All participants underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to assess the presence of gastropathies and gastroparesis. Demographic and clinical data—including age, gender, HbA1c, and duration of diabetes—were recorded using a structured proforma. Data entry and statistical analysis were performed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics used to summarize key findings. Results: The study cohort had a mean age of 50.31 ± 11.66 years, with 80 individuals (53.3%) aged below 50 years. Males accounted for 62.7% of the sample. The mean HbA1c was 10.60 ± 2.17%, and 106 participants (70.7%) had uncontrolled glycaemic levels. The mean duration of diabetes was 8.39 ± 5.28 years. Gastropathies were detected in 68 individuals (45.3%), whereas gastroparesis was observed in 76 individuals (50.7%). Conclusion: Gastropathies and gastroparesis were frequently identified among individuals with type 2 diabetes, underscoring the importance of incorporating routine gastrointestinal screening into diabetic care to ensure timely detection and management.