Cost of illness (COI) of type-II diabetes mellitus in Shillong, Meghalaya

This study aimed at contributing to the evidence base of economic burden caused due to type-II DM. The data were obtained from the 158 diabetics from the three tertiary hospitals in Shillong, Meghalaya, during January–March 2017 with the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. The information received was cross-checked with the medical records from the finance department. Patients comprised of 86 (54.4%) females and 72 (45.6%) males. The individuals under the age group of 56–65 were 49 (31%). The total median cost of illness per month was Rs. 5375 (2524–18,968) which was made up of 70.92% direct cost and 29.08% indirect cost. 58.2% respondents used their savings for getting treatment. The cost of care is high and comparable to cost in other countries. An improved understanding of COI of type-II DM will help in informing and motivating the policy and health decision makers which will reduce the national burden of this disease.