IDF21-0540 HbA1c as a marker of HDL cholesterol in Indian subjects with type 2 diabetes

Background: HbA1c is the gold standard means of accessing long term glycemia and for diagnosing diabetes. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). HDL‐c has been considered as a surrogate marker of CVD. Aim: In this study we aimed to find the relationship between HbA1c and HDL‐c in Odia subjects with T2DM. Method: T2DM adults, who visited Diabetic OPD were requested to participate. Subjects with type 1 diabetes, secondary diabetes, GDM, nourishing mothers, pregnant women, as well as individuals who were on lipid lowering medicines, thyroid hormone therapy, steroids, immunosupressants were excluded. Comprehensive medical and drug history were recorded. After consent, participants underwent overnight fasting for estimation of HbA1c and lipid panel measurement. Results: Mean age and duration of diabetes for the sample (n = 1352, M/F = 832/520) were 51.8 ± 10.5 and 9.8 ± 6.0 years respectively. Mean HbA1c and HDL‐c values were 8.7 ± 2.4% and 40.6 ± 8.7mg/dl in order. The prevalence of low HDL (n = 697, 51.6%) and hypertriglyceridemia (n = 689, 51.0%) were almost similar. Uncontrolled HbA1c (≥7%) was documented in two third (66.7%) of persons with low HDL. While HDL was seen to be inversely related to HbA1c values, triglyceride level was found to be proportionate to HbA1c. Discussion: The study shows that elevated HbA1c is associated with low HDL and high triglyceride levels in Odia T2DM subjects and warrants the use of statins for prevention of cardiovascular events in this resource restricted community.