A Descriptive Study on the Pattern of Random Blood Sugar Levels Among Patients Attending a Selected Health Centre

Abstract

Background: Random blood sugar (RBS) estimation is a simple and commonly used laboratory parameter for assessing the blood glucose level of an individual at a particular point in time. It is useful for screening and identifying individuals who may require further evaluation for abnormal glucose metabolism. The interpretation of RBS should be made along with clinical symptoms and, when required, confirmatory laboratory investigations.

Objective: To describe the pattern of RBS levels among patients attending a selected health centre and to assess the distribution of RBS according to age and gender.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 patients attending a selected health centre. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data regarding age, gender, and RBS level were collected. RBS was measured and recorded in mg/dL. The collected data were entered into a data sheet and analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, median, standard deviation, and range.

Results: Among the 30 participants, 21 (70.0%) were females, and 9 (30.0%) were males. The mean age of the participants was 41.43 years. The mean RBS level was 134.83 ± 44.50 mg/dL, with a median of 125 mg/dL and a range of 83–318 mg/dL. Eleven participants (36.7%) had RBS values of 140 mg/dL or above, while 19 (63.3%) had values below 140 mg/dL. Two participants (6.7%) had RBS values above 200 mg/dL.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated a wide variation in RBS levels among the participants, with most values occurring below 140 mg/dL. A small proportion of participants had markedly elevated RBS values and may require further clinical assessment and confirmatory testing according to clinical guidelines. The findings highlight the usefulness of routine blood glucose assessment and appropriate follow-up of individuals with abnormal results.