Prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Middle-East: Systematic review& meta-analysis

The association between dietary inflammatory index with some cardio-metabolic risk indices among the patients with type 2 diabetes from Hoveyzeh cohort study: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The dietary inflammatory index (DII) serves as a tool to assess the inflammatory impact of an individual's diet. This study aimed to investigate the association between DII and some cardio-metabolic risk indices among patients with T2DM.

METHODS

Data from the Hoveyzeh Cohort Study, encompassing 2045 adults with T2DM, were analyzed. DII scores were calculated based on food frequency questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical tests were performed to assess cardio-metabolic risk factors.

RESULTS

Higher DII scores were positively associated with elevated triglyceride levels, triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, lipid accumulation product (LAP), anthropometric indices including a body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI), body mass index (BMI), hip, waist circumferences (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (all Ptrend < 0.05). Notably, no significant association was observed between DII and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels (Ptrend > 0.05). Additionally, dietary intake analysis revealed a negative correlation between DII scores and intake of fiber, fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, seafood, dairy products, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, D, and E (all Ptrend < 0.05). Conversely, higher DII scores were associated with increased consumption of red meat, processed meat, refined cereals, potatoes, and soft drinks (all Ptrend < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the critical link between dietary inflammation, assessed by the DII score, and a multitude of cardio-metabolic risk factors in patients with T2DM. Notably, while the study did not find a significant association between DII and fasting blood sugar levels, it identified robust associations with novel anthropometric and biochemical indices indicative of cardio-metabolic risk. These findings highlight the potential of dietary interventions as a cornerstone strategy for managing T2DM and mitigating its associated complications.

Health and Wellness Characteristics of Employees Enrolled in a Workplace Wellness Study in the United Arab Emirates: A Descriptive Analysis of a Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Modifiable health behaviors have the power to increase (or decrease) the risk of chronic diseases, impacting a population's health. Health and wellness programs can potentially play a major role in initiating and supporting positive changes in health behaviors, which may lead to reducing the risk of premature mortality. A better understanding of the health and well-being status of the population is crucial to the design of proper and effective interventions. This pilot study aimed to describe the health and well-being status of a cohort of employees in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

METHODS

This pilot study reports the demographic characteristics, body composition, cardiovascular fitness, functional fitness, biological age, and well-being of employees from a large health sector company enrolled in a workplace wellness study in the UAE. Employees were invited to participate in an intervention that was designed to validate the efficacy of weekly health and wellness challenges. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the employees' distribution.

RESULTS

Of the 123 selected, 116 employees participated in the study. The mean age of participants was 39.2 years old, 80% of them were non-Emirati, and the majority were from Middle-Eastern and South Asian ethnicities. The prevalence of overweight, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia, prediabetes, and diabetes was 35%, 29%, 34%, 79%, 30%, and 7%, respectively. Almost half of the participants (47%) were prehypertensive for systolic blood pressure (BP), 80% had the fitness category of poor-very poor, and the majority (60%) reported exercising <150 minutes/week. The mean functional fitness score was 12.2 points, which indicated an increased risk of injury with physical activity.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this pilot study suggest that despite the advancements in healthcare in the UAE, several key preventable risk factors are still prevalent in its population. The introduction of comprehensive health and wellness programs at a broader scale holds the potential to facilitate the adoption of healthier lifestyle behaviors, thereby contributing to improvements in the overall quality of life across the population.

Capacity for the management of kidney failure in the International Society of Nephrology Middle East region: report from the 2023 ISN Global Kidney Health Atlas (ISN-GKHA)

The highest financial and symptom burdens and the lowest health-related quality-of-life scores are seen in people with kidney failure. A total of 11 countries in the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) Middle East region responded to the ISN-Global Kidney Health Atlas. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the region ranged from 4.9% in Yemen to 12.2% in Lebanon, whereas prevalence of kidney failure treated with dialysis or transplantation ranged from 152 per million population (pmp) in the United Arab Emirates to 869 pmp in Kuwait. Overall, the incidence of kidney transplantation was highest in Saudi Arabia (20.2 pmp) and was lowest in Oman (2.2 pmp). Chronic hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) services were available in all countries, whereas kidney transplantation was available in most countries of the region. Public government funding that makes acute dialysis, chronic HD, chronic PD, and kidney transplantation medications free at the point of delivery was available in 54.5%, 72.7%, 54.5%, and 54.5% of countries, respectively. Conservative kidney management was available in 45% of countries. Only Oman had a CKD registry; 7 countries (64%) had dialysis registries, and 8 (73%) had kidney transplantation registries. The ISN Middle East region has a high burden of kidney disease and multiple challenges to overcome. Prevention and detection of kidney disease can be improved by the design of tailored guidelines, allocation of additional resources, improvement of early detection at all levels of care, and implementation of sustainable health information systems.

Prevalence and Co-prevalence of Comorbidities among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the MENA Region: A Systematic Review

AIM

The management of type 2 diabetes mellitus is affected by the presence of comorbidities. This meta-analysis aimed to determine how likely it is for individuals with type 2 diabetes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to be living with additional chronic health conditions.

METHODS

We searched for studies published from January 2010 to December 2020 in the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE®, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Studies of adults with type 2 diabetes in the MENA region were included. We performed a random-effects meta-analysis of single proportions to calculate each comorbidity's overall prevalence/coprevalence.

RESULTS

Statistically significant co-prevalence was detected at p < 0.01 for angina (pooled proportion: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.49), cerebrovascular accident (pooled proportion: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.26), coronary artery disease (pooled proportion: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.35), coronary heart disease (pooled proportion: 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.12), peripheral vascular disease (pooled proportion: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.26), hypertension (pooled proportion: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.43, 0.69), renal impairment (pooled proportion: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.29), in addition to hyperlipidemia and overweight/ obesity.

CONCLUSION

There is evidence of co-prevalence of several comorbidities in patients with type 2 diabetes, highlighting the importance of enhancing communication among healthcare professionals to develop the optimal management plan for each patient.

Assessing medication adherence and their associated factors amongst type-2 diabetes mellitus patients of Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia: A single-center, cross-sectional study

Background

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) globally is reaching epidemic proportions. By 2035, it is projected to increase to 417 million, which is of significant concern as T2DM represents the most oversized budget item in many healthcare systems, primarily due to the high rates of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. The worldwide cost burden of T2DM has been inexorably growing. A key contributor to the remarkably high morbidity and mortality rates is poor glycemic control potentially associated with medication non-adherence.

Aim

The present research's main objective included assessing medication adherence among patients with T2DM in a single center in Jazan Province.

Methods

Three hundred nine patients with T2DM participated in a cross-sectional survey over three months (September to November 2022). The study participants comprised 50.8 % (females) and 49.2 % (males), with a mean age of 44.12 years (SD ± 12.70). A 31-item self-report questionnaire was used for data collection.

Results

Sixty-six percent of the sample were found to be adherent to their T2DM therapy. A positive association was noticed between the GMAS score and the participant's age (r = 0.24; p < 0.01). The participants' medication adherence was significantly associated with having age above 50 years (χ2 = 13.62; p = 0.001), residing in urban localities (χ2 = 21.37; p < 0.001), being married (χ2 = 12.80; p = 0.002), having glycated hemoglobin level more than 8 % (χ2 = 6.99; p = 0.03) and taking between one to three medications per day (χ2 = 17.63; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The majority of T2DM patients in the present study were found adherent to their anti-diabetic medications, particularly older patients. Future studies should focus on exploring the reasons for the reported high adherence among older patients and non-adherence among younger patients, as this could facilitate the development of a strategy to enhance adherence.

Stigma perception and determinants among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Iraq

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Stigma is a sign of social disgrace occurring within public relations, and it is linked with many health conditions including diabetes. Stigma could worsen the disease course, reduce treatment adherence, and affect the quality of life of diabetic patients. The objective of this study was to assess the magnitude of diabetic stigma among patients with type 2 DM.

METHODS

In this analytic cross-sectional study, data collection was performed from June 1, 2022, until November 1, 2022, et al.-Najaf City, Iraq. A consecutive sample of 429 patients with type 2 DM was interviewed using the Arabic version of the type 2 Diabetes Stigma Assessment Scale (DSAS-2), which is a validated tool. The total diabetic stigma score, treated differently score, self-stigma score, and blame and judgment score were estimated.

RESULTS

The mean age of the sample was 56.6 years, and males represented 61.8% of them. The total diabetic stigma score mean was 51.72. The question regarding people's judgment of food choices showed the highest rate (53%) among patients. Problematic stigma appeared in 24.71% of DM patients. Lower educational level, being divorced or widow, age above 50 years, being unemployed or housewife, and lower income showed significantly higher diabetic stigma scores.

CONCLUSION

One-quarter of type 2 DM patients showed problematic stigma. The mean diabetic stigma score was significantly higher among patients with lower education, divorced or widow status, older age, unemployment or housewife category, and low-income status.

Prevalence of dyslipidemias in the Middle East region: A systematic review & meta-analysis study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Dyslipidemia is a known main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and it can be controlled to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. This meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemias in the Middle East.

METHODS

The relevant published articles between 2000 and 2021 that investigated the prevalence of dyslipidaemias in the Middle East were found through international data sources such as Medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

The pooled prevalence of dyslipidemias, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the Middle East were 54.08% (95% CI: 43.83-66.71), 32.51% (95% CI: 28.59-36.43), 29.44% (95% CI: 18.74-40.13), 32.09% (95% CI: 22.17-42.01), 44.71% (95% CI: 37.86-51.57), respectively. During the last two decades, an increasing trend in the prevalence of dyslipidemias was observed overall and in both sexes. Also, the age groups over 30 significantly had the highest prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The increasing trend in the prevalence of dyslipidemias during the last two decades is an alarming and significant concern in the Middle East. Therefore, special measures are needed to deal with dyslipidemias as a health priority in the Middle East.

Flash'O real-world evidence programme - Attitude and practices toward the use of omega-3 FA by physicians from Middle East Countries

The Flash'O project was designed to provide insights into the current use of prescription omega-3 and their perceived benefits by physicians in real-world clinical practice, in Russia, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Gulf countries, and to determine the adherence of physicians to dyslipidemia management guidelines. The present study focuses on Flash'O's process and results in Middle East countries. A total of 338 physicians and specialists completed the online questionnaire. Most responding physicians were male (91.7%), general practitioners (42.6%) with more than 5 years of seniority (80.4%) and saw more than 50 patients a week (71.5%). Most surveyed physicians (64.2%) reported using guidelines in their daily practice for the management of their patients with dyslipidemia. They mostly followed national guidelines (68.6%). American or European ones were less commonly used. Responding physicians thought that omega-3 supplementation could be more beneficial in all types of dyslipidemia, except high non- hight density lipoproteins, and for patients suffering from obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, acute coronary syndrome with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and high cardiovascular diseases risk (score ≥ 5% and < 10%), but less beneficial in chronic kidney disease. Respondents recommended omega-3 to their patients mainly after statin treatment in patients with dyslipidemia and for the treatment of dyslipidemia. This survey confirmed that omega-3 fatty acids are at the heart of the cardiovascular medical strategy.

Association Between Risk for Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Prevention Among Faculty Members and Administrative Staff of a Saudi University

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus prevalence continues to rise globally, causing disability and decreased productivity among patients, a significant strain on healthcare systems, and a burden on national economies. In 2021, diabetes will affect approximately 537 million adults. The rising prevalence of prediabetes worldwide also poses a significant public health threat, as it is estimated that by 2030, more than 470 million individuals will be prediabetic.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the association between the risk of prediabetes and the level of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) prevention among faculty members and administrative staff of a Saudi university.

METHODS

An analytic cross-sectional study design was utilized. The prediabetes risk of respondents was assessed using a risk test developed by the CDC, while the participants' diabetes prevention practices were determined using a researcher-developed questionnaire. Data were collected from 360 selected faculty members and administrative staff of three randomly selected health colleges and three non-health colleges at King Faisal University, Hofuf, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, between September 25 and October 13, 2022. The collected data were subjected to estimation of proportion and logistic regression analyses using Epi InfoTM version 7.

RESULTS

Nearly 40% of respondents (39.72%, 95% CI: 34.80, 44.86) were found to be at high risk for prediabetes. The majority of university faculty and administrative staff consistently practiced T2DM preventive measures related to the limitation of processed food consumption, smoking cessation, and regular checking of weight and the nutritional value of food. However, there was poor T2DM prevention practice in terms of exercise, consumption of sweetened beverages, and stress reduction. Those who had a high prediabetes risk were 1.17 times more likely to engage in T2DM prevention practices. However, they were found to be 19% less likely to perform T2DM prevention practices when sociodemographic variables were held constant.

CONCLUSION

Prediabetes risk was prevalent among Saudi university faculty and administrative staff. T2DM prevention was not consistently practiced by those who had a high risk for prediabetes. High prediabetes risk was negatively associated with the level of T2DM prevention.

Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and related factors among the general adult population in Saudi Arabia between 2016-2022: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the cross-sectional studies

BACKGROUND

Health officials need current knowledge of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and related risk factors to prioritize prevention and control measures due to lifestyle changes, population structure, and the high incidence of diabetes in Saudi Arabia. The present systematic review aims to estimate the current pooled prevalence of T2DM and related risk factors among the general adult population in Saudi Arabia between 2016 and 2022.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched for cross-sectional studies that reported T2DM among adults in Saudi Arabia and were published between December 31, 2016, and December 31, 2022. The PRISMA guidelines and the AXIS tool were employed to report and evaluate study quality and bias risk.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis with a fixed effect model included 10 studies comprising 8457 general men and women adults aged 18 or older. The prevalence of T2DM was 28% (95% CI = 27-28, P < .001), and risks of T2DM in persons over 40 were nearly twice as high (OR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.34-2.27) than in age under 40 among general adult population in Saudi Arabia between 2016-2022. This difference was statistically significant (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

The evidence from this review provided alarming and highlighted points about the prevalence of T2DM between 2016 and 2022, but there was high heterogeneity between the studies. Individuals aged 40 or older had a high risk of T2DM among the general adult population in Saudi Arabia.

Metagenomic Shotgun Sequencing Reveals Specific Human Gut Microbiota Associated with Insulin Resistance and Body Fat Distribution in Saudi Women

(1) Background: Gut microbiota dysbiosis may lead to diseases such as insulin resistance and obesity. We aimed to investigate the relationship between insulin resistance, body fat distribution, and gut microbiota composition. (2) Methods: The present study included 92 Saudi women (18–25 years) with obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2, n = 44) and with normal weight (BMI 18.50–24.99 kg/m2, n = 48). Body composition indices, biochemical data, and stool samples were collected. The whole-genome shotgun sequencing technique was used to analyze the gut microbiota. Participants were divided into subgroups stratified by the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and other adiposity indices. (3) Results: HOMA-IR was inversely correlated with Actinobacteria (r = −0.31, p = 0.003), fasting blood glucose was inversely correlated with Bifidobacterium kashiwanohense (r = −0.22, p = 0.03), and insulin was inversely correlated with Bifidobacterium adolescentis (r = −0.22, p = 0.04). There were significant differences in α- and β-diversities in those with high HOMA-IR and waist–hip ratio (WHR) compared to low HOMA-IR and WHR (p = 0.02, 0.03, respectively). (4) Conclusions: Our findings highlight the relationship between specific gut microbiota at different taxonomic levels and measures of glycemic control in Saudi Arabian women. Future studies are required to determine the role of the identified strains in the development of insulin resistance.

Prevalence of Diabetes and Prediabetes, and Achievements in Diabetes Control in Iran; The Results of the STEPS of 2016

BACKGROUND

Using the WHO STEPwise approach to NCD risk factor surveillance (STEPS), first round of Iran's STEPS completed in 2005. It has been repeated six times afterward. Here we report the results of 2016 round on the population characteristics and prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes, along with an assessment of the country-level performance on diabetes care in Iran.

METHODS

Using a proportional-to-size cluster random sampling method, the STEPS 2016 included 18947 subjects aged≥25 years who matched the criteria (non-missing information on diabetes self-report, and biomarkers). For the analyses, survey design methods with weighted samples were employed. Different definitions of diabetes (biomarker-based, self-report, anti-diabetes medication use, or a combination) and prediabetes (different cutpoints of the biomarker) were calculated and presented.

RESULTS

An estimated 5171035 persons aged≥25 years or 10.6% (95% CI: 10.0%-11.1%) had diabetes according to the serologic diagnosis of diabetes (FPG≥126 mg/dL) or the use of at least one anti-diabetes medication (1896 out of 18947). Employing the serologic diagnosis of diabetes among those who responded no to the self-reported question, 2.7% (2.5%-3.0%) of the population were not aware of their diabetes compared to 11.5% (10.9%-12.0%) who were diabetics according to the just self-reported question. Defining prediabetes as 100≤FPG<126 mg/dL or 5.7≤HbA1c<6.5%, an estimated 15244299 persons had prediabetes (5885 out of 18947). Overall, 52.1% (49.4%-54.7%) of patients with self-reported diabetes were under strict glycemic control (HbA1c<7%). Poor diabetes control (HbA1c>9%) was found in 18.4% (16.3%-20.6%) of the patients with self-reported diabetes.

CONCLUSION

Since 2005, the prevalence of diabetes in Iran has been on a gradual increase in both genders with an increasing gap between females and males.

Prevalence and risk factors of vascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus: Results from discover Middle East and Africa cohort

Background

We evaluated the prevalence of vascular complications and associated risk factors in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) initiating second-line glucose-lowering therapy from the Middle East and Africa (MEA) cohort of the 3-year prospective DISCOVER study involving 15,992 patients in 38 countries.

Methods

Baseline cross-sectional data collected from healthcare settings were used to assess micro and macrovascular complications prevalence as crude and age- and sex-standardised. The multi-variable analysis assessed factors associated with these complications.

Results

Of 3,525 enrolled patients (mean age: 54.3 ± 10.8 years), >40% had hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. Metformin monotherapy was the first-line therapy in 56.5%, followed by metformin+sulphonylurea (20.3%). Crude and standardised prevalence of microvascular complications were 17.7% and 16.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 16.77-16.98) and macrovascular complications were 10.7% and 8.7% (95% CI, 8.59-8.76). Factors significantly (p<0.05) associated with micro and macrovascular complications (odds ratios [95% CI]) were age (1.24 [1.12-1.39] and 1.58 [1.35-1.84]), male sex (1.33 [1.04-1.70] and 1.71 [1.22-2.40]), hyperlipidaemia (1.33 [1.07-1.65] and 1.96 [1.46-2.63]) and hypertension (1.75 [1.40-2.19] and 2.84 [2.07-3.92]).

Conclusion

A substantial burden of vascular complications with prominent risk factors in the MEA cohort calls for early preventive interventions.

Characteristics and Treatment Patterns of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Middle East and Africa Cohort of the DISCOVER Study Program: a Prospective Study

INTRODUCTION

Despite the high prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and suboptimal glycemic control in the Middle East and Africa, comprehensive data on the management of T2D remain scarce. The main aim of this study is to describe the characteristics and treatment of patients with T2D initiating second-line glucose-lowering therapy in these regions.

METHODS

DISCOVER is a global, 3-year, prospective observational study of patients with T2D enrolled at initiation of second-line glucose-lowering therapy. Baseline characteristics and treatments are presented for patients from 12 countries divided into three regions: Mediterranean, Gulf Cooperation Council, and South Africa.

RESULTS

Among 3525 patients (52.5% male, mean age 54.3 years), mean time since T2D diagnosis was 6.2 years [across-region range (ARR) 5.8-7.5 years] and mean glycated hemoglobin levels were 8.7% (72.0 mmol/mol) [ARR 8.6-9.0% (68-75 mmol/mol)]. At first line, metformin was prescribed for 88.1% (ARR 85.4-90.3%) of patients and a sulfonylurea for 34.4% (ARR 12.7-45.4%). Sulfonylureas and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors were prescribed at second line for 55.5% (ARR 48.6-82.5%) and 49.0% (ARR 3.7-73.8%) of patients, respectively. Main reasons for choice of second-line therapy were efficacy (73.2%; ARR 60.1-77.7%) and tolerability (26.8%; ARR 3.7-31.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate considerable inter-region variations in the management of T2D, likely affected by multiple factors (health system, physician behavior, and patient compliance), all of which should be addressed to optimize outcomes.

The First United Arab Emirates National Representative Birth Cohort Study: Study Protocol

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has escalated. Evidence suggests that there are strong associations between nutrition in early life and the risk of disease in adulthood. This manuscript describes the study protocol of the First United Arab Emirates National Representative Birth Cohort Study (UAE-BCS), with the objective of investigating nutrition and lifestyle factors in the first 1,000 days of life. The main aims of the study are (1) to address critical issues relating to mother and child nutrition and their effect on growth and development, (2) to profile maternal nutrition, child growth, health, and development outcomes in early life, and (3) to study the associations between these factors among the Emirati population in the UAE.

METHODS/DESIGN

In this study, a multidisciplinary team of researchers was established including credible researchers from the UAE, Lebanon, Australia, and the United Kingdom to launch the First United Arab Emirates 3-year birth cohort study. We aim to recruit 260 pregnant Emirati women within their first trimester, which is defined by the study as from 8 to 12 weeks pregnant, from obstetrics and gynecology clinics in the UAE. Participants will be recruited via face-to-face interviews and will receive a total of 11 visits with 1 visit in each trimester of pregnancy and 8 visits after delivery. Maternal data collection includes, socio-demographic and lifestyle factors, dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, maternal psychological state, and blood samples for biochemical analysis. Post-partum, visits will take place when the child is 0.5, 4, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months old, with data collection including infant anthropometric measurements, young child feeding practices, dietary intake, supplement use and the eating environment at home, as well as all maternal data collection described above, apart from blood samples. Additional data collection for the child includes early child developmental assessments taking place at three timepoints: (1) within 2 weeks of birth, (2) at 10-14 months and (3) at 22-26 months of age. Early child developmental assessments for the infant include vision, hearing, cognition, motor skills, social-emotional reactivity, neurodevelopmental, and sleep assessments.

DISCUSSION

The United Arab Emirates Birth Cohort study protocol provides a standardized model of data collection methods for collaboration among the multisectoral teams within the United Arab Emirates to enrich the quality and research efficiency in early nutrition, thereby enhancing the health of mothers, infants, and children.

The Impact of Telemonitoring on Improving Glycemic and Metabolic Control in Previously Lost-to-Follow-Up Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Single-Center Interventional Study in the United Arab Emirates

BACKGROUND

Telemonitoring (TM), mobile-phone technology for health, and bluetooth-enabled self-monitoring devices represent innovative solutions for proper glycemic control, compliance and monitoring, and access to providers.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we evaluated the impact of TM devices on glycemic control and the compliance of 38 previously lost-to-follow-up (LTFU) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

This was an interventional single-center study that randomly recruited LTFU patients from the Dubai Diabetes Center (DDC), UAE. After contact and recruitment by phone, patients had an initial visit at which they were provided with home-based TM devices. A follow-up visit was conducted three months later.

RESULTS

The mean HbA1c decreased significantly from 10.3 ± 1.9% at baseline to 7.4 ± 1.5% at the end of follow-up, with a mean difference (MD) of -2.9% [95% CI: -3.6 to -2.2]. The percentage of patients with HbA1c <7% was 50% after three months. Home-based blood sugar monitor devices showed a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG) after three months (MD = -40.1 mg/dL, 95% CI: -70.8 to -9.3). A significant reduction was observed in terms of body weight after three months (MD = -1.3 kg, 95% CI: -2.5 to -0.08). The mean number of days the participants used a device was the highest for portable pill dispensers (86.5 ± 22.8 days), followed by a OneTouch® blood glucose monitor (72.9 ± 23.5 days).

CONCLUSIONS

TM led to significant improvements in overall diabetes outcomes, including glycemic control and body weight, indicating its effectiveness in a challenging population of T2DM patients who had previously been lost to follow-up.

[Treatment persistence with brand-name vs. generic metformin in monotherapy for type 2 diabetes: real-life retrospective study using the propensity matching score]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate treatment persistence in patients with polymedicated type 2 diabetes (DM2) receiving new treatment with brand-name vs. generic metformin 850mg in usual clinical practice.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Observational, retrospective study based on the medical records of patients aged ≥50 years who initiated metformin treatment (brand-name vs. generic) between 01/01/2016 and 31/12/2017. The follow up was two years.

MAIN MEASURES

treatment persistence and clinical consequences (metabolic control [HbA1c] and hospital admissions). Each patient in the brand-name group (reference) was paired with a patient from the generic group using propensity score matching. A Cox proportional risk model was constructed (p<0.05).

RESULTS

863 patients receiving brand-name metformin were matched (ratio 1:1) with patients receiving generic metformin. The median age was 60.8 years (SD: 8.8) years and 52.6% were female. Persistence at 24 months was 8.6% higher for brand-name vs. generic metformin (63.2% vs. 58.2%; p=0.034). The hazard ratio for brand-name metformin was 0.83 (95% CI: 0.71-0.96, p=0.013). During the follow-up there was a greater percentage reduction of HbA1c in the brand-name vs. generic group (-6.8% vs. -4.1%; p=0.013). There was a non-significant 19.1% reduction in hospital admissions in the brand-name vs. generic group (8.9% vs. 11.0%; p=0.148).

CONCLUSIONS

Polymedicated patients who initiated new brand-name metformin treatment for DM2 had greater treatment persistence than those who initiated it with generic metformin and had better metabolic control (percentage reduction in HbA1c).

Sleeping Duration, Napping and Snoring in Association with Diabetes Control among Patients with Diabetes in Qatar

BACKGROUND

Poor glycemic control is associated with chronic life-threatening complications. Several studies have revealed that sleep status is associated with glycemic control.

AIM

to examine the association between sleep duration, quality and glycemic control among adults with diabetes.

METHODS

Data on 2500 participants aged 18-60 years were collected from the Qatar Biobank (QBB). Sleep duration and quality were assessed by a self-completed health and lifestyle questionnaire, and glycemic control was assessed using HbA1c. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between sleep duration, napping, snoring and poor glycemic control.

RESULTS

After adjusting for age and gender, sleep duration was not associated with poor glycemic control. Lack of association persisted after controlling for smoking, physical activity, education, BMI, fruit and vegetable intake, insulin and medication use. However, sleeping for long hours at night (≥8 h) had a trend in increasing the risk of poor glycemic control (OR = 1.28; 95% CI: 0.94-1.74). Napping was positively associated with poor glycemic control. After adjusting for age and gender, patients who reported "sometimes, frequently, or always" napping had more than 30% increased risk of poor control as compared to patients who reported "never/rarely" napping. Snoring was not associated with poor glycemic control among the study sample when adjusted for age and gender (p = 0.61). Other factors were found to be associated with a better glycemic control such as female, high educational and high physical activity level.

CONCLUSIONS

our results suggest that napping may be an independent risk factor for a poor glycemic control in diabetes; further investigations are required.

Is 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Associated with Glycosylated Hemoglobin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Saudi Arabia? A Population Based Study

BACKGROUND

Saudi Arabia has a high burden of diabetes mellitus and vitamin D deficiency. The objective of this study was to explore the association between glycosylated hemoglobin and 25-hydroxyvitamin D in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

An interview based cross-sectional study was conducted on 606 patients with type 2 diabetes, aged 30-75 years, visiting primary health care centers. Blood samples were collected for measuring HbA1c, 25(OH)D and bone and lipid markers. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to explore the association between HbA1c and 25(OH)D.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) levels for HbA1c and 25(OH) D were 7.69 (±1.77) and 44.28 (±23.06), respectively. Around 55% of patients had uncontrolled HbA1c (>7.0), whereas vitamin D deficiency (<50 nmol/L) was found in 52.3% (=317). Multiple linear regression analysis found that a unit increase in vitamin D levels and parathyroid hormone levels was associated with -0.17 (-0.02, -0.01, p < 0.001) and -0.20 (-2.66, -1.18, p < 0.001) unit decrease in levels of HbA1c, respectively. Similarly, increasing age was associated with -0.15 (-0.01, -0.04, p = 0.002) unit decrease in HbA1c levels, whereas unit increases in serum alkaline phosphatase, calcium and diabetes duration were associated with 0.22 (0.01, 0.02, p < 0.001), 0.14 (1.03, 3.88, p = 0.001) and 0.26 (0.42, 0.78, p < 0.001) unit increase in HbA1c levels, respectively.

CONCLUSION

HbA1c levels are associated with 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. For better control of HbA1c levels, it is important to maintain 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and bone markers within normal range.

Relationship between the levels of serum fibroblast growth factor 19 and metabolic factors in obese and normal weight subjects with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus: a case-control study

OBJECTIVES

Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF-19) is a metabolic regulating factor with an anti-diabetic effect. This study aimed to evaluate FGF-19 in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its relationship with some metabolic risk factors.

METHODS

In this case-control study, 80 diabetic patients and 80 non-diabetic individuals were divided into two subgroups based on body mass index (BMI): obese people (BMI≥30) and participants with normal weight (25>BMI≥18.5). Furthermore, stratified analysis by gender was also performed. The metabolic factors were measured and compared in all groups. The relationship between FGF-19 and the measured items was investigated in each group.

RESULTS

The FGF-19 levels did not show a significant difference between groups. The serum levels of FGF-19 were negatively associated with some metabolic items, such as BMI, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC) (p<0.01), and LDL/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio (p=0.02) only in the healthy group with normal weight. According to the gender-based classification of individuals, FGF-19 showed a significant inverse relationship with BMI, weight (WT), waist circumference (WC), and hip circumference (HC) (p<0.05) in diabetic men; besides, FGF-19 in non-diabetic women had a significant negative association with TC, LDL, and LDL/HDL ratio (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The levels of FGF-19 were negatively correlated to WT, BMI, WC and HC in diabetic males. More studies are needed to warrant these results.

Gestational Diabetes in the Arab Gulf Countries: Sitting on a Land-Mine

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a modern-day plague by reaching epidemic levels throughout the world. Due to its similar pathogenesis, gestational diabetes (GDM) increases in parallel to T2DM. The prevalence of T2DM (3.9–18.3%) and GDM (5.1–37.7%) in countries of the Arab Gulf are amongst the highest internationally, and they are still rising precipitously. This review traces the reasons among the Arab nations for (a) the surge of T2DM and GDM and (b) the failure to contain it. During the last five decades, the massive oil wealth in many Arab countries has led to the unhealthy lifestyle changes in physical activity and diet. The excess consumption of calories turned the advantageous genes, originally selected for the famine-like conditions, detrimental: fueling obesity and insulin resistance. Despite genetic differences in these populations, GDM—a marker for future obesity and T2DM—can overcome this scourge of T2DM through active follow-up and screening after delivery. However, the health policies of most Arab countries have fallen short. Neglecting this unique chance will miss an irreplaceable opportunity to turn the tide of the T2DM and obesity epidemic in the Middle Eastern Arab Gulf countries—as well as globally.

Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes and Its Association with Added Sugar Intake in Citizens and Refugees Aged 40 or Older in the Gaza Strip, Palestine

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the prevalence and risk factors of diabetes among Gaza Palestinians, 64% of whom are refugees with exceeded sugar intake. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its association with added sugar intake among residents, with regular visits to primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across Gaza.

METHODS

From October to December of 2019, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1000 citizens and refugees in nine PHCs selected from the five governorates of the Gaza Strip. Information on dietary intake, medical history, and other risk factors was collected by trained health workers, using structured questionnaires. Anthropometry and biochemical data were extracted from the PHC medical record system.

RESULTS

Overall, the prevalence of diagnosed T2D and undiagnosed T2D were 45.2% and 16.8%, respectively, in adults aged 42 to 74 years, with the differences among citizens and refugees (diagnosed: 46.2% vs. 43.8%; undiagnosed: 15.7% vs. 18.2%). The uncontrolled glycaemic rate was 41.9% and 36.8% for diagnosed patients in citizens and refugees, respectively. Among those without a clinical diagnosis of T2D, after multivariable adjustment, daily added sugar intake was positively associated with fasting glucose and the risk of undiagnosed T2D (odds ratio, 95% CI, highest vs. lowest intake, was 2.71 (1.12-6.54) (pfor trend < 0.001). In stratified analysis, the associations between added sugar intake and the risk of undiagnosed T2D tend to be stronger among refugees or those with higher body mass index.

CONCLUSIONS

Among Palestinian adults, both citizens and refugees are affected by T2D. Added sugar intake is associated with the risk of undiagnosed T2D.

Adult Diabetes and Prediabetes Prevalence in Kuwait: Data from the Cross-Sectional Kuwait Diabetes Epidemiology Program

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in adults in Kuwait.

METHODS

The Kuwait Diabetes Epidemiology Program was a nationally representative, cross-sectional study of diabetes and obesity in Kuwait conducted between 2011 and 2014. The survey sampled 4937 adults in Kuwait aged 20 years or more and recorded participants' demographics, behaviours, medical history, physical measurements and blood biochemical measurements. Prediabetes was defined as fasting plasma glucose between 6.1 and 6.9 mmol/L or HbA1c between 6 and 6.4% (42-47 mmol/mol). Diabetes was defined as self-reported history with prescribed glucose-lowering medication or FPG ≥7mmol/L or HbA1c level ≥6.5% (≥48 mmol/mol).

RESULTS

The overall adjusted prevalence of diabetes was 19.1%. The overall adjusted prevalence of prediabetes was 13.5%. Diabetes prevalence was 5.4%, 14.2%, 38.7% and 64.8% in adults aged 20-29, 30-44, 45-59 and 60 years or more, respectively. Diabetes prevalence was 22.4% in men and 14.4% in women. Prediabetes prevalence was 14.8% in men and 11.5% in women. In Kuwaitis, diabetes and prediabetes prevalence was 21.8% and 11.1%, respectively, while prevalence in non-Kuwaitis was 18.2% for diabetes and 14.3% for prediabetes.

CONCLUSION

These findings illustrate the severe public health challenge posed by diabetes in Kuwait.

Transcriptional Profiling and Biological Pathway(s) Analysis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Pakistani Population

The epidemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an important global health concern. Our earlier epidemiological investigation in Pakistan prompted us to conduct a molecular investigation to decipher the differential genetic pathways of this health condition in relation to non-diabetic controls. Our microarray studies of global gene expression were conducted on the Affymetrix platform using Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 Array along with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to associate the affected genes with their canonical pathways. High-throughput qRT-PCR TaqMan Low Density Array (TLDA) was performed to validate the selected differentially expressed genes of our interest, viz., ARNT, LEPR, MYC, RRAD, CYP2D6, TP53, APOC1, APOC2, CYP1B1, SLC2A13, and SLC33A1 using a small population validation sample (n = 15 cases and their corresponding matched controls). Overall, our small pilot study revealed a discrete gene expression profile in cases compared to controls. The disease pathways included: Insulin Receptor Signaling, Type II Diabetes Mellitus Signaling, Apoptosis Signaling, Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling, p53 Signaling, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Signaling, Parkinson's Signaling, Molecular Mechanism of Cancer, and Cell Cycle G1/S Checkpoint Regulation, GABA Receptor Signaling, Neuroinflammation Signaling Pathway, Dopamine Receptor Signaling, Sirtuin Signaling Pathway, Oxidative Phosphorylation, LXR/RXR Activation, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction, strongly consistent with the evidence from epidemiological studies. These gene fingerprints could lead to the development of biomarkers for the identification of subgroups at high risk for future disease well ahead of time, before the actual disease becomes visible.