Abstract: Objective To investigate the epidemiologic characteristics of diabetes mellitus in population aged 35-74 years in Henan Province, and to provide theoretical basis for tertiary prevention of diabetes. Methods The survey was conducted among the residents aged 35-74 years in Henan Province, they were selected through multi-stage cluster random sampling according to economic geography. Questionnaire survey, physical examination and biochemical tests were conducted to obtain the information of the subjects. Multivariate logistic regression model was performed to explore the risk factors of diabetes mellitus. Results A total of 9 983 adults were surveyed. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 11.22% for the entire population (standardized prevalence was 11.21%), while 11.83% (standardized prevalence was 11.77%) for males and 10.75% (standardized prevalence was 10.82%) for females, respectively. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was increasing with age. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the 35 years-group in males was higher than that in females, while the in the 35-74 years group was lower. The differences were statistically significant (χ²=12.470,P<0.001; χ²=4.188,P=0.041). The results of multivariate logistic regression showed that age, gender, central obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension as well as family history were risk factors of diabetes mellitus (all P<0.05). Conclusions The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in population aged 35-74 years in Henan province was high. The unhealthy lifestyle and obesity were the major risk factors. It is necessary to strengthen the behavioral intervention in this part of the population, advocate a healthy lifestyle, limit alcohol consumption, prevent and control the occurrence of diabetes mellitus.