Objective:To investigate the related risk factors of diabetes mellitus(DM) in rural communities of Changzhou and provide a scientific basis for intervention. Methods:Totally 20 803 permanent residents in Wujin district of Changzhou, which were selected by multi－stage cluster sampling method, participated in baseline survey between July 2004 and September 2005. The follow－up was completed in 18 838 people between March 2008 and October 2009. A 1∶4 matched nested case－control study was performed in 101 cases with diabetes mellitus. The related risk factors were screened out with single and multi－factor logistic regression. Results:The multi－factor logistic regression showed that hypertension history,overweight(BMI 24.00~27.99),obesity(BMI≥28) increased the risk of diabetes mellitus and high－density lipoprotein reduced the risk. Conclusion:Diabetes is related to hypertension history,overweight(BMI 24.00~27.99),obesity(BMI≥28) and low high－density lipoprotein level in rural communities of Changzhou. Integrated intervention on high risk group is an important way to reduce the risk of diabetes mellitus of this group.