Frequency of Diabetes Mellitus in Thalassemia Major Patients in Thalassemia Center, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents a significant complication in individuals with thalassemia major (TM),(1) yet the underlying mechanisms and risk factors are not yet completely understood. Aim of this study is to investigate the frequency and associated factors of Diabetes Mellitus in Thalassemia Major patients and describing relationship between genetic predisposition, iron overload and metabolic dysfunction. Objectives: Determining the frequency of Diabetes Mellitus among Thalassemia Major patients presenting at the Thalassemia Center, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore. Additionally, the study aims to describe demographic factor, clinical parameters and family history profiles associated with the presence of DM. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from July 2023 to October 2023, involving data collection from medical records of Thalassemia Major patients over a three-month period. Demographic characteristics, including age and gender; clinical parameters such as the number of blood transfusions; and family history profiles of thalassemia and Diabetes Mellitus were
analyzed. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, was used to assess associations and significance levels. Results: The study included 129 Thalassemia Major patients, with a majority falling within the 5-11 years age group (70%) and a slight predominance of males (56%). There wer no significant associations upon analysis between age, gender, or the number of blood transfusions and DM. There was a significant correlation between positive family history of thalassemia (p = 0.0047) and Diabetes Mellitus (p = 0.0026) with the presence of Diabetes Mellitus among Thalassemia Major patients. Conclusion: Despite the lack of significant associations with demographic and clinical parameters, the findings emphasize the need for targeted screening and intervention strategies for high-risk individuals. (2)