Association Between Serum Ferritin and the Duration of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Chennai.

BACKGROUND: Hyperinsulinemia has been linked to increased ferritin production and iron absorption in type 2 diabetes mellitus, ultimately leading to increased iron storage. Glucose intolerance is intimately linked to this issue. Increased oxidative stress from iron decreases insulin's ability to be taken into cells and used for energy. Researchers suggest that increased iron levels in the body play a role in the emergence of insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and vascular repercussions associated with diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the levels of serum ferritin and fasting plasma glucose in both diabetic and nondiabetic individuals while establishing a relationship between the two. Exploring the connection between serum ferritin levels and the duration of diabetes mellitus in individuals diagnosed with diabetes is our objective.

METHODOLOGY: In this study, 80 men diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus were included, and they were compared with 70 male volunteers who were in good health. We took blood samples while the subjects fasted, and we analyzed the plasma glucose and serum ferritin levels.

RESULTS: In the diabetic group, there were notably higher levels of serum ferritin and fasting plasma glucose compared to the nondiabetic subjects. Furthermore, a correlation was observed between the duration of diabetes among participants with diabetes and elevated serum ferritin levels.

CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that low-grade inflammation and increased body iron stores are positively related to hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus.