Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Diabetic Patients Using Metformin
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Aboshaiqah Ahmad, Aboshaiqah Bader, Alharbi Naif M, Almunyif Tariq I, Binghanim Saad D, Almejalli Abdullah K
Primary Institution: Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among diabetic patients using metformin?
Conclusion
The study found that the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among diabetic patients using metformin was low, with most patients having borderline levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Vitamin B12 deficiency prevalence ranged from 4.6% to 5.5% across four quarters of 2023.
- Females exhibited a higher prevalence of deficiency than males, particularly in the second and fourth quarters.
- Younger age groups (≤25 years and 36-45 years) had higher deficiency rates.
- Medication use, specifically metformin, correlated with increased deficiency prevalence.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many diabetic patients taking metformin have low vitamin B12 levels, and it found that not many do.
Methodology
This retrospective cohort study used electronic medical records to analyze vitamin B12 levels in diabetic patients on metformin over one year.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the retrospective nature of the study and reliance on electronic medical records.
Limitations
The study was limited to patients from one medical group, which may affect the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
The majority of participants were Saudi citizens, with a higher prevalence of deficiency observed in females and younger age groups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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