Height was measured with a calibrated height measuring scale to the nearest cm. Subjects were requested to stand upright without shoes with their back against the scale, heels together and eyes directed forward. Weight was measured with a digital balance (Camry®). The scale was checked every day and calibration was done with "known" weights. Subjects were asked to wear minimum clothing and weight was recorded to the nearest 0.5 kg. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using the formula: weight (kg)/height (m2). Waist was measured using a non-stretchable measuring tape without any clothing. Waist girth was measured at the midpoint point between the lowest point of the costal margin and the highest point of iliac crest in the midaxillary line at minimal respiration. Hip girth was measured as the greatest circumference at the level of greater trochanters with minimal thin clothing. Measurements were made to the nearest centimeter. Waist and hip ratio (WHR) was calculated by dividing the waist circumference (cm) with the hip circumference (cm). Blood pressure was recorded in the sitting position in the right arm to the nearest 1mm of Hg using a mercury sphygmomanometer, calibrated at least once a week. Two readings were taken at 5 minutes apart and the mean of the two was taken as the blood pressure. Fundus examination with dilated pupils by an ophthalmologist was done in all patients at the beginning of the study.