Evaluation of renal and inflammatory markers in elderly diabetic patients in Port Harcourt

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder linked to hyperglycemia, systemic inflammation, and increased renal dysfunction risk, particularly in the elderly. The progression of DM complications in elderly individuals remains underexplored. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate renal function parameters and inflammatory markers in elderly individuals with DM in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study including 298 participants (149 people with diabetes and 149 non-diabetic controls) aged 50–85 years. Blood samples were analyzed for fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and serum creatinine. Urine samples were assessed for albumin and creatinine, and the albumin–creatinine ratio (ACR) was calculated. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance at p < 0.05. Results: Diabetic participants had higher FBG (14.7 ± 1.2 vs. 4.8 ± 0.4 mmol/l, p < 0.001) and HbA1c (13.4 ± 2.9% vs. 4.9 ± 1.28%, p < 0.001). Inflammatory markers, including CRP (10.07 ± 3.65 vs. 6.36 ± 2.62 mg/l), ESR (59.72 ± 25.06 vs. 28.72 ± 19.22 mm/h), and IL-6 (238 ± 39 vs. 48 ± 9.1 pg/ml), were significantly elevated (p < 0.001). Renal parameters, including serum creatinine (132.0 ± 16.40 vs. 86.0 ± 9.02 mmol/l) and ACR (9.71 ± 3.95 vs. 3.93 ± 1.05), were higher in diabetics (p < 0.001). Females had higher CRP, ESR, IL-6, and urine albumin levels than males (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Elderly individuals in Port Harcourt with DM exhibit significant hyperglycemia, inflammation, and renal impairment, with females showing a greater inflammatory burden. These findings call for gender-sensitive strategies for DM management.