Serum Iron Markers and Their Association with HbA1c in a Non-Diabetic Population

Abstract

Introduction: Iron metabolism plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including oxygen transport, energy production, and enzymatic functions. Emerging evidence suggests that alterations in iron homeostasis may influence glycemic markers, even in individuals without diabetes. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the serum iron markers and their association with HbA1c in a non-diabetic population. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Physiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC), Dhaka, from July 1, 2017 to July 30, 2018. A total of 48 subjects were selected by consecutive purposive sampling technique. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version 25.0. Statistical analysis included Pearson’s correlation. Result: Among subjects with good glycemic control, no significant correlations were found between HbA1c levels and serum iron, TIBC, ferritin, or transferrin saturation. However, hemoglobin levels showed a significant negative correlation with HbA1c (r = -0.538, p < 0.01). In contrast, among subjects with poor glycemic control, significant correlations were observed between HbA1c levels and serum iron (r = +0.483, p = 0.017), TIBC (r = -0.560, p = 0.004), ferritin (r = +0.487, p = 0.016), and transferrin saturation (r = +0.483, p = 0.017), whereas hemoglobin levels did not significantly correlate with HbA1c (r = +0.079, p = 0.715). Conclusion: This study explores the link between serum iron markers and HbA1c in non-diabetics, showing significant correlations in those with poor glycemic control, while only hemoglobin showed a negative correlation in those with good control.