Association between Vitamin D levels and Glycemic Control in Sudanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: In the past decade, vitamin D has been identified as a risk factor for Type 2 Diabetic Mellitus (T2DM) and linked to reduced insulin secretion and resistance in both experimental and epidemiological research.

Objectives: The research sought to ascertain the correlation between vitamin D insufficiency and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Study Design: This cross-sectional descriptive study included 40 diabetes patients who visited the Abdullah Khalil Diabetes Center at Omdurman Teaching Hospital. The data was collected using a meticulously designed questionnaire. Blood samples were collected for measuring HbA1c and 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D]. Variable comparisons were analyzed using t-tests with a significance level of <0.05. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS v.26, which included Chi-Square and ANOVA tests.

Results: 70% of the patients were female, with an average age of 50.6 years; 42.5% were classified as overweight and 22.5% as obese. The results indicated that 97.5% of the patients had elevated HbA1c levels, whereas 90% demonstrated diminished 25(OH)D levels. The research identified a notable association between HbA1c, p = 0.01), skin pigmentation, p = 0.02), and vitamin D deficiency. 85% of the patients had an inadequate consumption of foods rich in vitamin D. The correlation between vitamin D insufficiency and T2DM necessitates the development of an awareness program on vitamin D, which should delineate the recommended daily allowance (RDA), dietary sources rich in and fortified with vitamin D, and appropriate sun exposure guidelines.

Conclusion: The study found a significant link between Vitamin D deficiency and elevated HbA1c levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).