Influence of iron deficiency anemia on glycated hemoglobin levels in non-diabetic Saudi women.

OBJECTIVE

Studies of patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) have shown a relationship between high glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and low hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. The present study was conducted to determine the influence of IDA on HbA1c in non-diabetic women.

METHODS

Fifty-nine Saudi women (20 to 50 years old) were enrolled and categorized into groups according to their circulating hemoglobin concentration: Non-IDA (Hb ≥7.45 mmol/L;  = 38) and IDA (Hb ≤7.44 mmol/L;  = 21). The IDA group was further subdivided according to the severity of the IDA, as follows: mild (Hb 6.83 to 7.44 mmol/L;  = 9) and moderate-severe (Hb <6.83 mol/L;  = 12). HbA1c, Hb, ferritin, fasting blood glucose, and red blood cell (RBC) count were measured in each participant.

RESULTS

HbA1c did not significantly differ between the groups, but the absolute HbA1c level was significantly lower in the mild and moderate-severe anemia groups than the non-anemic group, and was positively associated with Hb, ferritin, and RBC count. In addition, the HbA1c level was inversely associated with the Hb concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c is significantly associated with parameters related to IDA in non-diabetic Saudi women. Therefore, assessment of IDA-related parameters is recommended prior to making a diagnosis of diabetes.