Baseline Hemoglobin A1c Research Articles

The blood pressure-lowering property of subcutaneous semaglutide: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression.

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide (GLP1) receptor agonist with unprecedented weight-lowering and anti-hyperglycemic properties. Recent clinical trials reported that subcutaneous semaglutide can modulate blood pressure; however, its effect on blood pressure widely varied in different studies and different subgroups of patients. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched from the inception to July 18, 2024. Due to high heterogeneity, a random-effects model was adopted to pool data. Twenty clinical trials with 15,312 participants in the placebo group and 18,231 participants in the semaglutide group were included in this study. Subcutaneous semaglutide significantly decreased both systolic (WMD - 3.71 mmHg, 95% CI (-4.29, -3.13), I2: 50.2%) and diastolic (WMD - 1.10 mmHg, 95% CI (-1.58, -0.63), I2: 69.7%) blood pressure. Subgroup analyses indicated that the blood pressure-lowering property of subcutaneous semaglutide was greater among patients without diabetes, with lower baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), baseline body mass index (BMI) greater than 35kg/m2, dose of semaglutide more than 1mg/week, baseline systolic blood pressure equal or less than 130 mmHg, weight loss greater than 10kg, and BMI reduction greater than 3kg/m2. In addition, a treatment length of 50 to 100 weeks was associated with greater blood pressure-lowering effects in subgroup analysis. After adjusting for other factors, meta-regression revealed that placebo-adjusted weight change was independently correlated with the effect of semaglutide on systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Subcutaneous semaglutide can significantly decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in selected groups of patients.

Digital Storytelling Intervention for Hemoglobin A1c Control Among Hispanic Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are more likely to develop complications and die from the disease than the US general population. Digital storytelling interventions are narrative-based videos elicited through a community-based participatory research approach to surface the authentic voices of participants overcoming obstacles to health-promoting behaviors that perpetuate health inequities; research on the effect of digital storytelling on T2D outcomes among Hispanic adults is lacking. To assess the impact of a digital storytelling intervention on glycemic control and its acceptability among Hispanic patients with poorly controlled T2D. This was a multicenter, randomized clinical trial conducted within 2 primary care networks in Minnesota and Arizona among Hispanic adults with poorly controlled T2D (hemoglobin A1c level ≥8%). Enrollment and follow-up were conducted between February 14, 2019, and November 1, 2023. The intervention group viewed a 12-minute digital storytelling video. The video included 4 Spanish-language stories that reinforced 4 diabetes self-management behavioral goals (healthful diet for diabetes, physical activity, medication adherence, and glucose self-monitoring). The control group received printed, culturally tailored T2D education materials. The primary outcome was the mean change from baseline to 3 months for hemoglobin A1c levels, adjusting for baseline hemoglobin A1c, age, gender, education, and income. Acceptability and narrative quality of the intervention were assessed through questionnaires. There were 451 study participants, with 227 (mean [SD] age, 54.3 [9.3] years; 158 [69.3%] women) randomized to the intervention group and 224 (mean [SD] age, 54.5 [9.1] years; 156 [69.3%] women) to the control group. Of these, 390 completed 3-month follow-up of the primary outcome (86% retention). There was a small improvement in the mean (SD) hemoglobin A1c level in the intervention group compared with the control group in the adjusted model (9.1% [1.7] to 8.4% [1.6] vs 9.4% [1.8] to 8.8% [2.0]; P = .04] but not in the unadjusted model. Acceptability and narrative quality of the intervention were high. In this randomized clinical trial, a digital storytelling intervention developed with and for Hispanic adults with T2D was highly acceptable and feasibly implemented within primary care settings and resulted in a modest improvement of glycemic control. This was a highly scalable intervention that may be integrated into clinical practice as part of a longitudinal diabetes self-management program for Hispanic adults. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03766438.

Association between glucose levels of children with type 1 diabetes and parental economic status in mobile health application.

The glycemic control of children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) may be influenced by the economic status of their parents. To investigate the association between parental economic status and blood glucose levels of children with T1D using a mobile health application. Data from children with T1D in China's largest T1D online community, Tang-TangQuan®. Blood glucose levels were uploaded every three months and parental economic status was evaluated based on annual household income. Children were divided into three groups: Low-income (< 30000 Yuan), middle-income (30000-100000 Yuan), and high-income (> 100000 yuan) (1 Yuan = 0.145 United States Dollar approximately). Blood glucose levels were compared among the groups and associations were explored using Spearman's correlation analysis and multivariable logistic regression. From September 2015 to August 2022, 1406 eligible children with T1D were included (779 female, 55.4%). Median age was 8.1 years (Q1-Q3: 4.6-11.6) and duration of T1D was 0.06 years (0.02-0.44). Participants were divided into three groups: Low-income (n = 320), middle-income (n = 724), and high-income (n = 362). Baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were comparable among the three groups (P = 0.072). However, at month 36, the low-income group had the highest HbA1c levels (P = 0.036). Within three years after registration, glucose levels increased significantly in the low-income group but not in the middle-income and high-income groups. Parental economic status was negatively correlated with pre-dinner glucose (r = -0.272, P = 0.012). After adjustment for confounders, parental economic status remained a significant factor related to pre-dinner glucose levels (odds ratio = 13.02, 95%CI: 1.99 to 126.05, P = 0.002). The blood glucose levels of children with T1D were negatively associated with parental economic status. It is suggested that parental economic status should be taken into consideration in the management of T1D for children.

Injera (Eragrostis tef)-restricted diet’s role in the management of type 2 diabetes: A case study

Injera, a soft, fluffy bread made from Eragrostis tef, is a staple food in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine, consumed by over 90 percent of the population in those two countries, including those in diaspora. Despite being marketed as gluten-free, there has been a misconception regarding its impact on blood sugar levels. This case study investigates the efficacy of a diet restricted in injera consumption in reducing hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) levels over a 90-day period. The intervention emphasizes limited intake of injera. Results indicate a significant reduction from the initial baseline HbA1C level of 7.5% to 5.3% by Day 90, This is a 30% decrease surpassing the recommended target for glycemic control in diabetics. Therefore, despite its gluten-free marketing, injera consumption can significantly impact blood sugar levels. This underscores the importance of understanding the dietary implications of staple foods like injera, especially for individuals managing diabetes.

Improving equity in diabetes technology use: Voices of youth and their parents.

There are marked inequities in clinical outcomes and rates of diabetes technology use among youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The quantitative data from our mixed methods cohort study identified significant improvements in glycaemia and quality of life in participants. We aimed to use qualitative methods to provide further insight into our quantitative findings in the setting of underlying health disparities. Fifteen publicly insured, insulin pump-naïve non-Hispanic Black youth aged 6-21 years with T1D and baseline haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≥86 mmol/mol (10%) and their parents participated in a mixed methods cohort study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted separately with parents and youth after completion of 6 months of HCL use. Three topic areas were explored: (1) Experience using HCL, (2) barriers to HCL and (3) facilitators to accessing HCL. Semantic content analysis and consensus coding involving two team members were used to generate themes. Thematic saturation was achieved. Youth (Medianage 14.9 years, 67% female) and parents (92% female) were interviewed. Youth and their parents reported that access to HCL provides a new outlook on living with T1D, although managing T1D is still hard. They felt that diabetes technology is most helpful for those struggling with management. Participants experienced barriers to access including misconceptions of HCL systems, clinician bias and systemic racism. They suggested these barriers can be overcome by offering diabetes technology education for all people with T1D, increasing awareness of HCL in the community and providing resources to overcome barriers created by social determinants of health. The voices of historically minoritised youth with suboptimal T1D control and their parents provide important, previously unreported experiences and perspectives on barriers and facilitators to using HCL that will shape interventions to improve equity in access to diabetes technology.

1378-P: The Association between Baseline Hemoglobin A1c (A1C) and Risk of Progression from Prediabetes to Diabetes across Adult Age Groups

1378-P: The Association between Baseline Hemoglobin A1c (A1C) and Risk of Progression from Prediabetes to Diabetes across Adult Age Groups

Association between remote resistance exercises programs delivered by a smartphone application and skeletal muscle mass among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes- a retrospective real-world study.

We aimed to explore the relationship between remote resistance exercise programs delivered via a smartphone application and skeletal muscle mass among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes, utilizing real-world data. The resistance exercises were provided through Joymotion®, a web-based telerehabilitation smartphone application (Shanghai Medmotion Medical Management Co., Ltd). The primary outcome was the changes in skeletal muscle index (SMI) before and after the remote resistance exercises programs. The secondary outcomes were changes in skeletal muscle cross-sectional area (SMA), skeletal muscle radiodensity (SMD) and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT). A total of 101 elderly patients with type 2 diabetes were analyzed. The participants had an average age of 72.9 ± 6.11 years for males and 74.4 ± 4.39 years for females. The pre- and post-intervention SMI mean (± SE) was 31.64 ± 4.14 vs. 33.25 ± 4.22 cm2/m2 in male, and 22.72 ± 3.24 vs. 24.28 ± 3.60 cm2/m2 in female respectively (all P < 0.001). Similarly, a statistically significant improvement in SMA, IMAT, and SMD for both male and female groups were also observed respectively (P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression models showed potential confounding factors of baseline hemoglobin A1c and duration of diabetes with changes in SMI in male, while hemoglobin A1c and high density lipoprotein cholesterol with changes in SMI in female. Remote resistance exercises programs delivered by a smartphone application were feasible and effective in helping elderly patients with type 2 diabetes to improve their skeletal muscle mass.

Telemedicine for the Underserved Racial and Ethnic Minorities During COVID-19 and Beyond.

Objective: To demonstrate that a culturally and linguistically appropriate telehealth protocol can be implemented to improve the glycemic control of patients as an extension of regular clinical services and provide continuity of care. Methods: A telehealth platform was established during COVID-19 pandemic and from numerous telehealth encounters we sampled 498 patients who received telehealth intervention over a 12-month period for specific services: Rx refill, consultation for laboratory results, wellness evaluation and education, and acute or sick visits with appropriate referrals. This telehealth platform was integrated with a remote patient monitoring system utilizing a Bluetooth-enabled glucometer for patients with diabetes compared to their abnormal baseline hemoglobin A1C (HgA1C). The Blood sugar values were recorded at predefined intervals to monitor controls for diabetes. The ethnic diversity and level of education of patients required addressing the digital divide, language interpretation, and navigation at each monitoring step. Results: This method demonstrated that a culturally and linguistically appropriate telehealth protocol can be implemented to improve the glycemic control of patients in an intervention group compared with a control group. Validation of the glycemic control was based on 70 patients identified as eligible for participation based on the inclusion criteria: a HgA1C level of 7% or higher obtained within the last 10 months. Informed consent was obtained for 42 participants based on patient participation constraints during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: We conclude that telemedicine procedures utilized for patients with little or no prior knowledge of remote self-monitoring methods can support their treatment of chronic diseases, such as diabetes. The outcomes from the implementation of telemedicine services were observed in a well-defined group of underserved racial and ethnic minority patients at our clinic. We now have a protocol to expand this to other chronic diseases and used as a regular clinical procedure.

The Effect of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists on Diabetic Retinopathy at a Tertiary Care Center

The potential association between diabetic retinopathy (DR) worsening and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) has affected therapeutic management of diabetic patients but remains controversial. This study compared rates of DR development or progression in patients on GLP-1RA to those on SGLT-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2I). Retrospective cohort study. Nine hundred eighty-one patients with diabetes mellitus taking GLP-1RA or SGLT-2I, the latter serving as controls, between 2012 and2023. Patients were one-to-one greedy matched by propensity scores on race/ethnicity, age, smoking status, baseline body mass index and hemoglobin A1c %, type of diabetes mellitus, baseline DR status and history of DR procedures, duration of drug use, whether they had taken both drug types, and change in hemoglobin A1c % after 1year on the drug. The primary outcome was clinical DR development or progression (termed "worsening") detected by International Classification of Diseases (ICD), 10th edition codes, confirmed by manual review, on GLP-1RA compared with SGLT-2I after propensity score matching. Secondary outcomes included DR worsening indicated by need for procedures due to complications, and time-to-first DR worsening event. The study included 692 GLP-1RA users and 289 SGLT-2I users. The mean follow-up periods for GLP-1RA versus SGLT-2I use were 1.54 (standard deviation [SD] 1.82) years and 1.38 (SD 1.56) years, respectively. The rates of clinical worsening were 2.3% and 2.8%, respectively. After propensity score matching, an association was not identified between GLP1-RA and DR worsening neither clinically by ICD-10 codes (odds ratio [OR]=0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.11-1.03) nor by indication for procedures (OR=0.50, 95% CI 0.13-2.00). Time-to-first DR worsening did not differ between the groups in Kaplan-Meier analysis. The most common type of clinical worsening event for both drug types was vitreous hemorrhage (43.7% and 50% of worsening events in GLP-1RA and SGLT-2I users, respectively). The most common DR procedure indicated was anti-VEGF injections (34% and 35% of GLP-1RA and SGLT-2I events, respectively). Diabetic retinopathy worsening, either clinically or by procedures, was not associated with GLP-1RA compared with SGLT-2I, both before and after propensity score matching on all analyses, including time-to-first worsening event. Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.

Associations among diabetes medication use, serum magnesium, and insulin resistance in a cohort of older Puerto Rican adults

BackgroundHypomagnesemia is commonly observed in individuals with diabetes, but how diabetes medications alter magnesium (Mg) status remains unclear. ObjectivesWe aimed to examine the association between diabetes medication and hypomagnesemia and evaluate whether serum Mg mediates the association between diabetes medication and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) in a prospective cohort. MethodsAdults from the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study were included (n = 1106). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for cross-sectional association between diabetes medication and hypomagnesemia (serum Mg <0.75 mmol/L). Longitudinal mediation analysis was performed to evaluate the direct and indirect (via serum Mg) associations between diabetes medication and 4-y HOMA-IR in 341 participants with baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of ≥6.5%. ResultsMean age at baseline was 59.0 ± 7.6 y, with 28.0% male and 45.8% with hypomagnesemia. Use of metformin [OR (95% CI) = 3.72 (2.53, 5.48)], sulfonylureas [OR (95% CI) = 1.68 (1.00, 2.83)], and glitazones [OR (95% CI) = 2.09 (1.10, 3.95)], but not insulin, was associated with higher odds of hypomagnesemia. Use of multiple diabetes medications and longer duration of use were associated with higher odds of hypomagnesemia. Serum Mg partially mediated the association between metformin and HOMA-IR [indirect association: β (95% CI) = 1.11 (0.15, 2.07)], which weakened the direct association [β (95% CI) = -5.16 (-9.02, -1.30)] by 22% [total association: β (95% CI) = -4.05 (-7.59, -0.51)]. Similarly, serum Mg mediated 17% of the association between sulfonylureas and elevated HOMA-IR. However, the mediation by serum Mg was weak for insulin and glitazones. ConclusionsDiabetes medication, especially metformin, was associated with elevated odds of hypomagnesemia, which may weaken the association between metformin and lowering of HOMA-IR. The causal inference needs to be confirmed in further studies.

The effects of stress hyperglycemia in diabetic and nondiabetic patients with large vessel occlusions undergoing mechanical thrombectomy.

Diabetes and hyperglycemia are major risk factors that can increase infarction volume and contribute to poor functional status. Our study aim was to investigate the effect of stress hyperglycemia on various safety and efficacy outcomes in patients with large vessel occlusions (LVOs) undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT) with or without diabetes. A retrospective analysis of consecutive LVO patient data treated with MT at a Comprehensive Stroke Center in the Mid-South was conducted. Adult patients with LVO on computed tomography angiography (CTA) and treated with MT within 24 h of symptom onset were included. The primary outcome was to determine if there was an association in collateral flow or infarct size in the setting of hyperglycemia. Secondary outcomes included National Institute of Health Sciences Score (NIHSS) and Modified Rankin Score (mRS). A total of 450 patients underwent MT, out of which 433 had baseline hemoglobin A1c recorded: mean age: 64 ± 15 years, 47% women, pretreatment NIHSS median 15 points (interquartile range 10-19), 323 (75%) with good collaterals grades >2 on multiphasic CTA, 326 (75%) were non-diabetic, and 107 (25%) were diabetic. Nondiabetics with stress hyperglycemia had a tendency toward higher pre-treatment NIHSS scores (mean 17.5 ± 7.6, P = 0.02) and at 24-h (12.9 ± 9.0, P = 0.02), poor collaterals (multiphasic CTA score ≥2; 21.4% vs. 34.5%, P = 0.02), larger infarct volumes (50.7 ± 63.6 vs. 24.4 ± 33.8 cc, P < 0.0001), and had poorer functional outcomes (good mRS 0-2 47.7% vs. good mRS 0-2 36.8%) when compared to nondiabetics without stress hyperglycemia. For every 1 mg/dL increase in admission blood glucose, there was a 0.3 cc increase in infarct volume (95% confidence intervals for β =0.2-0.4; P < 0.0001) after adjusting for the final thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score. LVO patients with stress hyperglycemia without previously diagnosed diabetes had more severe strokes, developed larger infarct volumes, poorer collaterals, and had worse functional outcomes at 90 days post-MT. In addition, LVO patients with diabetes and stress hyperglycemia exhibited more passes during MT and worse functional outcomes.

Non-coronary peripheral arterial complications in people with type 2 diabetes: a Swedish retrospective cohort study

BackgroundFew studies have explored long-term trends and risk factors for peripheral arterial complications in type 2 diabetes compared to the general population. Our research focuses on identifying optimal risk factors, their significance, multifactorial control risks, and trends for these complications in diabetic patients versus general controls. MethodsThis study included persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus entered into the Swedish National Diabetes Register 2001-2019 and controls matched for age-, sex- and county of residence. Outcomes comprised of extracranial large artery disease, aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, lower extremity arterial disease and diabetes foot disease. Standardized incidence rates and Cox regression were used for analyses. FindingsThe study comprises 655,250 persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus; average age 64.2; 43.8% women. Among persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the incidence rates per 100,000 person years for each non-coronary peripheral arterial complication event changed between 2001 and 2019 as follows: extracranial large artery disease 170.0 to 84.9; aortic aneurysm 40.6 to 69.2; aortic dissection 9.3 to 5.6; lower extremity artery disease from 338.8 to 190.8; and diabetic foot disease from 309.8 to 226.8. Baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), systolic blood pressure (SBP), smoking status and lipid levels were independently associated with all outcomes in the type 2 diabetes mellitus cohort. Within the cohort with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the risk for extracranial large artery disease and lower extremity artery disease increased in a stepwise fashion for each risk factor not within target. Excess risk for non-coronary peripheral arterial complications in the entire cohort for persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus, compared to matched controls, were as follows: extracranial large artery disease adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.69 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.65-1.73), aortic aneurysm HR 0.89 (95% CI, 0.87-0.92), aortic dissection HR 0.51 (95% CI, 0.46-0.57) and lower extremity artery disease HR 2.59 (95% CI, 2.55-2.64). InterpretationsThe incidence of non-coronary peripheral arterial complications has declined significantly among persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with the exception of aortic aneurysm. HbA1c, smoking and blood pressure demonstrated greatest relative contribution for outcomes and lower levels of cardiometabolic risk factors are associated with reduced relative risk of outcomes.Funding: Swedish governmental and the county support of research and education of doctors, the Swedish Heart and Lung Foundation and Åke-Wibergs grant.

Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Empagliflozin in Bangladeshi Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (EFFISAEM Study)

Abstract Background: Empagliflozin is a relatively newer glucose-lowering drug (GLD) with many extra-glycemic benefits. To date, no study has evaluated the efficacy and safety of empagliflozin in Bangladeshi patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of empagliflozin as an add-on to ongoing GLDs in Bangladeshi adults with uncontrolled T2DM. Materials and Methods: This real-world, multicenter, open-label, prospective study was carried out at 21 sites throughout Bangladesh from 1 February 2022 to 31 July 2022. Patients with T2DM who met the criteria had Empagliflozin added to their existing GLD treatment, with necessary modifications to their ongoing medication regimen. The efficacy and safety data were collected 12 weeks after empagliflozin initiation. Results: Out of 1449 subjects initiating empagliflozin, 1340 subjects [age 50.3 ± 9.0 years, male 52.5%, overweight/obese 94.4%, insulin-treated 25.7%, baseline hemoglobin A1c (Hba1c) 9.9 ± 1.4%] completed the study. At 12 weeks, the reduction in HbA1c was 1.6% (95% CI 1.5-1.6, P &lt; 0.001); 12.5% of the study subjects achieved HbA1c &lt; 7%. There were also significant (P &lt; 0.001 in all instances) reductions in fasting plasma glucose (3.0 mmol/L), plasma glucose 2 hours after breakfast (4.8 mmoL/L), body weight (1.9 kg), body mass index (0.8 kg/m2), systolic blood pressure (BP) (10 mmHg), diastolic BP (7 mmHg), insulin dose (3 U), serum creatinine (0.06 mg/dL), total cholesterol (18 mg/dL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (13 mg/dL), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (1 mg/dL), and triglyceride (42 mg/dL) and an increase in estimated glomerular filtration rate (4.2 mL/min/1.73 m2) from the baseline values. 6.62% experienced adverse events (lightheadedness 2.21%, genital tract infection 0.97%, urinary tract infection 1.24%, generalized weakness 0.48%, and nocturia 0.48%). 1.1% of subjects experienced hypoglycemia, and other 0.12% reported severe hypoglycemic events. Conclusion: Empagliflozin is effective, safe, and tolerable for treating Bangladeshi patients with uncontrolled T2DM as add-on therapy in routine clinical practice with favorable effects on body weight, BP, lipid profile, and renal function.

Effect of periodontal therapy on glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes.

This study aimed to elucidate the impact of periodontal therapy on glycaemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes and various baseline blood glucose levels using a large-scale claims database from Japan. Using the JMDC Claims Database, we identified individuals with type 2 diabetes who underwent health check-ups in the fiscal years 2018 or 2019 and were followed up until the next year's health check-up. We conducted a weighted cohort analysis using stabilized inverse probability weights for treatment and censoring to estimate the effect of periodontal therapy on changes in haemoglobin A1c levels within a year. Analysis was done for different baseline haemoglobin A1c categories: 6.5%-6.9%, 7.0%-7.9% and ≥8.0%. Of the 4279 insured persons included in the study, 957 received periodontal therapy. Overall, there was a tendency towards improved glycaemic control among those who received periodontal therapy. Participants with baseline haemoglobin A1c levels of 7.0%-7.9% who received periodontal therapy exhibited significantly better glycaemic control compared with those without dental visits (difference; -0.094 [95% confidence interval: -0.181 to -0.007]). Periodontal therapy may improve glycaemic control in individuals with diabetes, especially in those with haemoglobin A1c levels ≥7.0%.

Testosterone replacement therapy: association with mortality in high-risk patient subgroups.

We describe studies determining the association between testosterone therapy (TTh) and mortality. We used a registry database of 737 men with adult-onset testosterone deficiency defined as presenting with low serum total testosterone (TT) levels ≤12.1nmol/L and associated symptoms over a near 10-year follow-up. We compared associations between testosterone undecanoate (TU), cardio-metabolic risk factors and mortality using non-parametric statistics followed by separate Cox regression models to determine if any association between TU and morality was independent of age and cardio-metabolic risk factors. Finally, the association between TU and mortality was studied in men stratified by cardio-metabolic risk. During a median follow-up interquartile range (IQR) of 114 (84-132) months, 94 of the 737 men died. TU (ref: non-treatment) was associated with mortality; hazard ratio=0.23, 95% confidence intervals=0.14-0.40. Cox's regression models showed the above association to be independent of baseline age, waist circumference, hemoglobin A1c, lipids, blood pressure, smoking, and type 2 diabetes. These variables remained associated with mortality. We finally stratified the men by the high-risk baseline variables and established that the association between mortality and TU was only evident in men at higher risk. A possible explanation could lie with the "law of initial value," where greater improvements are evident following treatment in patients with worse baseline values. This study with long follow-up confirms that TTh is associated with lower mortality in men with adult-onset TD. This association was evident only in men with greater cardio-metabolic risk factors who demonstrated greater benefit.

Eating Behaviors and Estimated Body Fat Percentage Among Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

AimsEstimate associations between select eating behaviors and estimated body fat percentage (eBFP) and explore effect modification by sex among adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). MethodsThis analysis included 257 adolescents (mean age 14.9 ± 1.14 years; 49.8% female) with baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) between 8-13% (64 mmol/mol – 119 mmol/mol) from a randomized trial designed to improve glycemia. Eating behaviors and eBFP were determined from surveys and validated equations respectively. Linear mixed models were used to estimate associations. Effect modification was assessed via stratified plots, stratified associations, and interaction terms. ResultsDisordered eating, dietary restraint, and eBFP were significantly higher among females while external eating was higher among males. Disordered eating (β: 0.49, 95%CI: 0.24, 0.73, p=0.0001) and restraint (β: 1.11, 95%CI: 0.29, 1.92, p=0.0081) were positively associated with eBFP while external eating was not (β: -0.19, 95%CI: -0.470, 0.096, p=0.20). Interactions with sex were not significant (p-value range: 0.28–0.64). ConclusionDisordered eating and dietary restraint were positively associated with eBFP, highlighting the potential salience of these eating behaviors to cardiometabolic risk for both female and male adolescents. Prospective studies should investigate whether these eating behaviors predict eBFP longitudinally to inform obesity prevention strategies in T1D.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Liraglutide on Metabolic Parameters in the Treatment of Obesity.

Background One of the essential chronic diseases is obesity, which negatively affects the individual and society. Liraglutide (LG) is an effective treatment for both obesity treatment and metabolic control. This study aims to show the effect of a 3.0 mg dose of LG, injected subcutaneously once a day, on weight loss and metabolic parameters. Methods This retrospective single-center study included 67 patients (60 women and seven men) with a BMI of at least 27 kg/m2 with comorbidities or a BMI of at least 30 kg/m2. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical data of the participants were evaluated at the end of the four and 16 weeks. Results The mean body weight (BW) loss of patients using LG at 16 weeks was -11.71±2.21 kg. After the four and 16 weeks of beginning the LG use, the patients who lost more than 5% of initial BW were 38.8% vs. 76.1%, respectively (p=0.034). The mean baseline Homeostatic Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance Index, hemoglobin A1c, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides values were significantly higher than the 4 and 16 weeks (p<0.001). Twenty-two (32.8 %) patients experienced side effects (SE) after starting LG treatment, and the most common SE was found to be nausea (29.4%). Conclusion The use of LG, which is not covered by insurance, together with diet and exercise, has been shown to have clinically significant weight loss and a positive effect on glycemic values ​​and lipid profile.

Caudal regression syndrome type 1 with minimally invasive computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging autopsy: a case report

BackgroundCaudal regression syndrome is a rare complex congenital anomaly with reduced penetrance and phenotypic variability characterized by osseous defects of the caudal spine, lower limb anomalies, and accompanying genitourinary, gastrointestinal/anorectal, and cardiac system soft tissue defects. We report a rare presentation of type 1 caudal regression syndrome in a pregnant woman with preexisting diabetes, in which early recognition of severe fetal anomalies on routine antenatal ultrasound facilitated confirmation with fetal magnetic resonance imaging to characterize extent of disease and prognosticate fetal outcome.Case presentationThis case of type 1 caudal regression syndrome in the setting of maternal pregestational diabetes mellitus resulted in stillbirth. The mother was a 29-year-old Caucasian primigravida female with past medical history of poorly controlled type 2 diabetes managed with metformin prior to pregnancy, prompting admission for glucose management and initiation of insulin at 13 weeks. Baseline hemoglobin A1c was high at 8.0%. Fetal ultrasound at 22 weeks was notable for severe sacral agenesis, bilateral renal pelvis dilatation, single umbilical artery, and pulmonary hypoplasia. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging at 29 weeks showed absent lower two-thirds of the spine with corresponding spinal cord abnormality compatible with type 1 caudal regression syndrome. The mother delivered a male stillborn at 39 and 3/7 weeks. Minimally invasive postmortem magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography autopsy were performed to confirm clinical findings when family declined conventional autopsy. Etiology of sacral agenesis was attributed to poorly controlled maternal diabetes early in gestation.ConclusionMaternal preexisting diabetes is a known risk factor for development of congenital malformations. This rare case of type 1 caudal regression syndrome in a mother with preexisting diabetes with elevated hemoglobin A1c highlights the importance of preconception glycemic control in diabetic women and the utility of fetal magnetic resonance imaging for confirmation of ultrasound findings to permit accurate prognostication. Additionally, minimally invasive postmortem magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography autopsy can facilitate diagnostic confirmation of clinical findings in perinatal death due to complex congenital anomalies while limiting the emotional burden on bereaved family members who decline conventional autopsy.

Diabetes and the risk of cirrhosis and HCC: An analysis of the UK Biobank.

Diabetes increases the risk of cirrhosis and HCC. We aimed to assess such associations given different diabetes statuses. We included 449,497 participants in the UK Biobank cohort (mean age 56.7±8.0y; 45.5% male) and assessed the association between preclinical diabetes (prediabetes, having a high risk of diabetes), clinical diabetes (presence, duration, or glycemic control of type 2 diabetes), and incident liver cirrhosis and HCC by the Cox regression. Liver diseases were ascertained through inpatient records and national death registration. Gene-environment interaction was examined using the polygenic risk scores of cirrhosis and HCC. Compared with normoglycemia, having <5 years,≥5 years of diabetes showed adjusted HRs (aHRs) of cirrhosis as 2.85 (2.45-3.32) and 3.43 (2.92-4.02), respectively, which was similarly observed in HCC. In diabetes, a level of hemoglobin A1c ≥ 7.5% showed aHRs of 1.37 (1.07-1.76) and 1.89 (1.10-3.25) for cirrhosis and HCC, respectively, compared with hemoglobin A1c < 6.5%. In non-diabetes, prediabetes presented aHRs of 1.41 (1.14-1.73) and 1.80 (1.06-3.04) of cirrhosis and HCC, respectively. Participants with a high risk of diabetes at baseline showed an aHR of 3.31 (2.65-4.13) for cirrhosis and 2.09 (1.15-3.80) for HCC. In those with a high genetic risk of HCC, having an increased risk of diabetes posed a significantly higher risk of HCC (aHR: 1.93, 1.45-2.58, Pinteraction=0.005), compared with those without a high genetic risk of HCC. Not only diabetes but preclinical diabetes, longer diabetes duration, and higher baseline hemoglobin A1c were associated with an increased risk of incident cirrhosis and HCC in the general population.

A comparison of virtual and in person delivery of a full meal replacement program for obesity.

Full meal replacement (FMR) Intensive Lifestyle Interventions (ILI) have been used for weight management. However, predictors of efficacy with these programs are less clear. The primary objective was to assess weight loss predictors in a community-based FMR ILI program. A secondary objective was to determine if weight loss was different between virtual and in person ILI. This was a retrospective cohort study involving 234 patients who started the program between 1 January 2016 and 3 March 2021. In the 24-week program, patients spent 12weeks on FMR and then transitioned back to food for the remainder, with weekly follow up with a physician and group sessions with a dietitian. Visits were in person prior to March 2020 and virtual afterward. Patients' average age was 47.5years (SD=12.0) and 73.5% were female. Average weight loss was 14.3% (SD=6.2%). There was no significant difference in weight loss between virtual and in person programs. Patients on a Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist prior lost less weight. Other significant associations between groups were baseline Hemoglobin A1C, classes attended, as well as the age since peak weight. Weight loss from virtual ILI was not significantly different from person ILI. More research is needed to determine how to best stratify care as virtual or in person using FMR programs.