Prevalence of B12 deficiency among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using Metformin in Sulaimani governorate /Kurdistan region of Iraq

Abstract

Background and objectives:Vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, es- pecially those using Metformin for a long period of time. The aim of this study was to determine the association and prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among Kurdish patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on metformin therapy and its associated clinical complications. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Diabetes and Endocrine Center of Sulaimani city. Data, including past medical history, medication history and blood samples, were collected from 223 participants to measure fasting blood sugar, blood cells counts, HbA1c, renal function and serum B12 level. Results: This study found a high prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency, 24.6% in patients with type 2 dia- betes mellitus on Metformin therapy. There was a significant difference between mean B12 levels of those with B12 deficiency (145.24 ± 32.88 pg/ml) and those with normal serum B12 level (387.62 ±281.44 pg/ml). No relationship existed between vitamin B12 levels and the dose and duration of metformin use. However, there was a statically significant relationship between serum vitamin B12 and peripheral neuropathy. Conclusions: Prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among patients using Metformin is high, but there is no significant effect of the dose and duration of Metformin exposure on B12 concentration. Additionally, there’s a significant relationship between the presence of neuropathy and B12 level.