Assessing the Correlation Between HbA1c Levels and Vitamin D in Patients at Khamis Mushait General Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: This cross-sectional study explores the correlation between HbA1c levels and Vitamin D status and inflammatory markers, particularly C-reactive protein (CRP), in adult patients among patients at Khamis Mushait General Hospital in Saudi Arabia. With the high prevalence of both diabetes and Vitamin D deficiency in the region, understanding this relationship is crucial for improving diabetes management and patient outcomes. Vitamin D plays and inflammatory markers, particularly C-reactive protein (CRP) play a significant role in glucose metabolism, influencing insulin secretion and sensitivity. Prior studies suggest that higher Vitamin D levels or supplementation can improve glycemic control and lower HbA1c levels, although results have varied.
Methodology: Data will collected from diabetic patients attending the hospital in outpatients medical clinics throw interview and laboratory data is obtained from patients Electronic file, including serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and HbA1c measurements and inflammatory markers, particularly C-reactive protein (CRP). The study employed appropriate statistical methods to analyze the data and determine the strength and significance of the correlation between these variables.
Results: The study analyzed data from 391 participants, revealing a mean height of 1.64 meters, weight of 67.43 kg, and BMI of 24.96. The average HbA1c level was 6.95 mmol/L, and the mean 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was 38.05 ng/mL. Pearson correlation showed significant relationships: higher Vitamin D levels correlated with lower HbA1c (r = -0.34), while higher BMI (r = 0.32) and older age (r = 0.35) correlated with higher HbA1c. ANOVA analysis confirmed significant associations between HbA1c and variables like age, marital status, employment, education, BMI, and smoking status. Logistic regression indicated that age, marital status, lower vitamin D, retirement, and higher BMI were significant predictors of high HbA1c levels. These findings emphasize the impact of demographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors on HbA1c levels.
Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant negative correlation between Vitamin D levels and HbA1c, suggesting that higher Vitamin D levels are associated with better glycemic control. These results underscore the potential benefits of incorporating Vitamin D assessment and supplementation into diabetes management protocols. The study recommends routine Vitamin D screening for diabetic patients and public health campaigns to address Vitamin D deficiency.