ROLE OF SERUM FERRITIN IN MANAGING GLYCEMIC CONTROL AMONG INDIVIDUALS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from insulin resistance and/or insulin deficiency. Serum ferritin, a marker of iron storage and inflammation, has been increasingly recognized for its potential role in the pathophysiology of T2DM, particularly in relation to insulin resistance and glycemic control.

Objective: To determine the relationship between serum ferritin levels and glycemic control, as measured by HbA1c, in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 125 patients diagnosed with T2DM. This study was conducted at Biochemistry Department, Allama Iqbal Medical College/ Jinnah hospital Lahore from April 2023 to April 2024. Serum ferritin levels and HbA1c were measured, and their relationship was analyzed using Pearson's correlation and multiple linear regression. Patients were categorized into groups based on their HbA1c levels (<7.0%, 7.0%-8.0%, and >8.0%) to assess differences in serum ferritin across these categories.

Results: The study found a significant positive correlation between serum ferritin levels and HbA1c (r = 0.42, p < 0.001). Patients with poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 8.0%) exhibited significantly higher serum ferritin levels, averaging 187.3 ng/mL, compared to those with better control (HbA1c < 7.0%), who had an average ferritin level of 132.5 ng/mL. Serum ferritin was identified as an independent predictor of HbA1c in the multiple regression model (β = 0.38, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that elevated serum ferritin levels are associated with poorer glycemic control in individuals with T2DM. Serum ferritin could serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing the severity of metabolic dysregulation in T2DM, complementing traditional markers such as HbA1c.