Doctors explain why diabetes, hypertension raise severe dengue risk

Doctors revealed that people living with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and kidney disease face a significantly higher risk of developing severe dengue complications.

On World Dengue Day 2026, Dr Anil Vardani explained in a conversation with HT Lifestyle that the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases has made dengue infections more dangerous across populations.

He noted that dengue is now being detected throughout the year, driven by longer mosquito transmission seasons and the impact of climate change.

Dengue Symptoms and How the Infection Progresses

According to Dr Vardani, Aedes mosquitoes — which transmit the dengue virus — are most active during early morning and late afternoon.

Early symptoms of dengue typically include high fever of up to 104°F, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands and skin rashes.

In severe cases, the infection can progress to plasma leakage, internal bleeding, shock and even organ failure.

Why Diabetes and Hypertension Increase Complications

Dr Vardani said patients with diabetes are at significantly higher risk of severe outcomes, including a 2.5-fold increased risk of developing dengue haemorrhagic fever.

He added that when diabetes is combined with cardiovascular disease, the risk of serious organ complications can rise eightfold compared to people without underlying conditions.

“High blood sugar weakens the immune system, increases inflammation, damages blood vessels, and slows the body’s ability to clear the virus,” Dr Vardani explained.

He also noted that hypertension alone increases the risk of severe dengue by around 1.5 to 2 times, often leading to a greater likelihood of intensive care admission or complications.

“Hypertension weakens and damages blood vessels, making them more fragile,” he said, adding that dengue-related inflammation and plasma leakage can further strain the cardiovascular system.

Obesity and Kidney Disease Add Further Risk

Doctors also highlighted obesity as a major risk factor for severe dengue complications.

Dr Vardani explained that obesity can weaken immune response and trigger chronic inflammation, reducing the body’s ability to fight infection effectively.

It may also disrupt blood vessel function, increasing the likelihood of plasma leakage. Research suggests overweight patients may face around a 50% higher risk of severe dengue complications compared to those without obesity.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), meanwhile, carries some of the most serious risks. Patients with CKD are more frequently hospitalised and face up to a threefold higher risk of death from dengue, according to Dr Vardani.

“Impaired kidney function disrupts fluid and electrolyte balance, increasing the likelihood of shock and organ failure,” he said.

Growing Public Health Concern as Dengue Becomes Year-Round

Experts say the combined rise in chronic diseases and changing environmental conditions has intensified the public health challenge posed by dengue.

With infections now occurring year-round in many regions, doctors are urging increased awareness among high-risk groups, particularly those with underlying conditions.

Health professionals continue to stress early detection and timely medical care to reduce the risk of severe complications.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition