FREQUENCY OF RISK FACTORS IN DENGUE HEMORRHAGIC FEVER

Abstract

Background: Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a severe complication of dengue virus infection, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Identifying the frequency of risk factors among DHF patients can help guide early interventions and improve outcomes.

Objective: To determine the frequency of major risk factors in patients diagnosed with DHF.

Methods: A six-month cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. A total of 200 patients with laboratory-confirmed DHF were included. Data regarding demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and clinical warning signs were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate frequencies and percentages.

Results: Among 200 patients, 124 (62%) were male and 76 (38%) were female, with a mean age of 34.7 ± 12.1 years. The most common risk factors were secondary dengue infection (68%), hypertension (24%), diabetes mellitus (18%), delayed hospitalization >4 days (30%), and presence of warning signs (46%). Less frequent risk factors included chronic kidney disease (6%) and ischemic heart disease (5%).

Conclusion: Secondary infection, comorbidities, and delayed hospitalization were the most frequent risk factors in DHF patients. Early identification and monitoring of high-risk individuals are essential to reduce severe outcomes.