Factors Associated with Poor Glycemic Control and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Poor glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) increases the risk of cardiovascular complications. Dyslipidemia and inflammation play important roles, while the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) may serve as a marker of cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to identify factors associated with poor glycemic control and AIP in patients with T2DM. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 192 patients with T2DM at Jabir Abu Eliz Center, from June 2021 to November 2021. Demographic and clinical data were collected using structured questionnaires, and blood samples were analyzed for hs-CRP, HbA1c, and lipid profile using a Biosystems A15 analyzer. Chi-square and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with poor glycemic control and elevated AIP. Results: Among the 192 participants, males and females were equally represented (50% each). Approximately 53.6% were aged ≤44 years, 40.1% were overweight, and 15.6% were obese. Poor glycemic control was observed in 51.6% of patients, while 48.4% had controlled glycemia. Based on AIP classification, 66.2% of participants were at moderate risk of CVDs, while 33.8% were at low risk. Chi-square analysis revealed that age >44 years (OR = 7.52, P < 0.001), obesity (OR = 9.28, P < 0.001), hs-CRP ≥1 mg/L (OR = 3.6, P < 0.001), hypercholesterolemia (OR = 12.75, P = 0.000), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 5.15, P = 0.000), low HDL-C levels (OR = 0.225, P = 0.000), high LDL-C levels (OR = 12.15, P = 0.000, and AIP ≥0.1 (OR = 5.37, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with poor glycemic control. Patients aged >44 years with elevated HbA1c and hypercholesterolemia were more likely to be at increased risk of CVDs. Conclusion: Poor glycemic control and higher AIP were significantly associated with age, obesity, dyslipidemia, and inflammation. Elevated AIP indicates poorer glycemic control and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. These findings emphasize the need for integrated management strategies targeting metabolic and inflammatory factors in patients with T2DM.