Introduction: DM has been implicated with multiple complications including diabetic cardiac autonomic neuropathy (DCAN), with a global burden ranging from 1% - 90% in type 1 DM and 20% - 73% in type 2 DM. Poor glycemic control, long duration of DM and traditional cardiovascular risk factors have been associated with the development and progression of DCAN. In Tanzania, there is limited data on DCAN burden and its associated factors. This study was conducted to raise awareness about DCAN, so as to establish protocols and guidelines for better diabetes management and control. Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the DM MOPD at BMC, with a sample size of 383 DM patients. A standard questionnaire was used for Data collection, and DCAN diagnosis was made using cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests (CARTS). Data was analyzed using STATA version 15, DCAN associated factors were analyzed using bivariate logistic regression models. Results: Of 383 patients, 49.1% (188) had DCAN with heart rate variability being the most common abnormality 38.9% (149) and Postural hypotension being the least 2.4% (9). Obesity, presence of pathological Q and resting tachycardia were significantly associated with DCAN. Though statistically significant, Age, peripheral neuropathy, HbA1C, dyslipidemia, hypertension and DM duration were not analyzed in the final model because of multi-collinearity. Conclusion: DCAN is prevalent among DM patients attending MOPD at BMC. Obesity, resting tachycardia and pathological Q wave are significantly associated with DCAN. Measures should be taken to address the increase in obesity in our population. ECG should be performed in DM patients to address the grave clinical repercussion associated with pathological Q wave.
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