Exploring electrocardiographic alterations and the prolongation of QT interval in patients with diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) affects a substantial proportion of the world’s population and is associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) due to cardiac arrhythmias, specifically prolonged QT intervals. This study investigates the correlation between glycemic control and cardiac health in 77 diabetic patients. Methods: Patients with both type 1 and type 2 DM aged 14 to 82 years were included. Various clinical and metabolic parameters were evaluated, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C). QT intervals were measured using electrocardiograms (ECGs), and patients were categorized based on their QTc intervals. SPSS was used for statistical analysis, including one-way ANOVA tests. Results: The study revealed diverse age and gender representation among diabetic patients. Most patients had type 2 diabetes (87%) with varying illness durations. Patients ranged in age from 14 to 82 years, with a mean of 48.14 16.58 years. The gender distribution was even (49% male and 51% female). Most participants had diabetes for less than five years (57%) and varied treatment histories (71% managed with oral hypoglycemic agents, 17% with insulin, and 12% with a combination). The ECG revealed ST-T alterations (4%) as well as sinus tachycardia (13%) and left ventricular hypertrophy (19%). Conclusion: This study sheds light on the intricate relationship between diabetes, glycemic control, and cardiac health. QTc interval variations were observed even though the clinical and metabolic profiles of the patients varied. The influence of glycemic control on QT intervals and cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients requires additional study.

Keywords

• diabetes mellitus
• electrocardiogram
• glycemic control
• one-way anova
• qt interval
• sudden cardiac death