The Prevalence of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Among Diabetic Patients Who Use Metformin.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a recognized concern among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using metformin due to its potential impact on health outcomes. This study investigates the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among diabetic patients using metformin at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group (HMG) hospitals.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study utilized electronic medical records from the VIDA system (www.cloudsolutions.com) over a one-year period. Participants included adult T2DM patients managed with metformin therapy. Data collection involved demographic details, medical history, medication usage, and serum vitamin B12 levels. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and comparative tests to assess deficiency prevalence across demographics.

RESULTS

Among the study population (N=37,781), vitamin B12 deficiency prevalence ranged from 460 (4.6%) to 507 (5.5%) across four quarters of 2023. Females exhibited a higher prevalence than males (P < 0.05), particularly in the second and fourth quarters. Age-related analyses identified younger and middle-aged groups (≤25 years and 36-45 years) as having higher deficiency rates (P < 0.001). Medication use, specifically metformin, correlated with increased deficiency prevalence (P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

The findings underscore the significance of gender, age, and medication use in influencing vitamin B12 status among diabetic patients using metformin. The study highlights the need for tailored monitoring strategies and interventions to mitigate deficiency risks and optimize patient outcomes. Future research should explore mechanisms underlying these associations and expand findings to broader populations.

CONCLUSION

This study provides critical insights into the epidemiology of vitamin B12 deficiency among diabetic patients using metformin at HMG hospitals. The results emphasize the importance of personalized healthcare approaches to address nutrient deficiencies and improve overall patient care. This study summarizes the key elements of your research paper, focusing on the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in relation to metformin use among diabetic patients.