Endocrinology & Metabolic Syndrome
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-1017
+44 1478 350008
ISSN: 2161-1017
+44 1478 350008
Ariane Davis and Marjproe Pennant
University of Maryland Midtown Campus, USA
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Endocrinol Metab Syndr
Introduction: Human beings are influenced by the environment and studies have shown seasonal changes have an impact on biological functions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the seasonal variation of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and hypertension. Uncontrolled diabetes and hyperglycemia is associated with increased complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness and chronic kidney disease. A 1% increase in HbA1c results in an 18% relative risk of CVD. Demonstration of seasonal variation of these factors will lead to greater understanding of its determinants. Methods: During this retrospective study, we examined seasonal variation in HbA1c, blood pressure and weight changes in 100 patients with type 2 diabetes living in Baltimore, MD. Data was retrieved from the electronic medical records at University of Maryland Midtown Campus outpatient diabetes center from September 2014 to July 2015. Results: HBA1c values were higher in the winter and lower in the summer with 12.4% increase seen during the winter months. The variation in SBP followed a similar pattern with a 6.5% (8.5 mmgh) increase and an increased mean body weight increased of 2.43% ( 2.2 kg) during the winter months. Discussion: The mechanisms through which seasonal changes induce biological variations are possibly through a combination of increased caloric intake, decreased physical activity, and vitamin D deficiency. Seasonal variation in HBA1c mirrors the variation in seasonal mortality and morbidity due cardiovascular disease including increased arterial blood pressure, acute myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death.
Email: arie963@gmail.com