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Correlation of C-Peptide With Complications Observed in Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes in Tanzania: A

Edna Siima Majaliwa1,2, Kandi Catherine Muze2, Joel Ndayongeje3

  • 1Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania.

Global Pediatric Health
|March 23, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Low C-peptide levels in Tanzanian youth with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) correlate with higher rates of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy. These findings highlight the need for targeted complication prevention strategies in resource-limited settings.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Diabetology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) complications are linked to C-peptide levels, but this relationship is understudied in resource-limited nations.
  • C-peptide, a marker of endogenous insulin production, may offer insights into T1DM progression and complication risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between C-peptide levels and the prevalence of diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy in young T1DM patients in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
  • To identify factors contributing to T1DM complications in a resource-limited African setting.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from 2021-2022.
  • Participants included 281 individuals aged 0-25 years with T1DM.
  • Diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy were assessed, alongside C-peptide levels, HbA1c, age at diagnosis, and diabetes duration.

Main Results:

  • A majority of participants (71.5%) exhibited low C-peptide levels, and 62.3% had poor glycemic control (HbA1c > 10%).
  • The prevalence of retinopathy was 11.7%, and the risk for nephropathy was 41.3%.
  • Low C-peptide levels were associated with higher rates of retinopathy (13.4%) and high-risk nephropathy (41.8%). Age at diagnosis, poor glycemic control, low C-peptide, and diabetes duration were linked to complications.

Conclusions:

  • Low C-peptide levels are significantly associated with increased risk of nephropathy and retinopathy in young T1DM patients in Tanzania.
  • Age at diagnosis, glycemic control, C-peptide status, and diabetes duration are critical factors influencing complication development.
  • Further prospective research is recommended to understand complication onset and develop effective prevention strategies in similar settings.

Keywords:
C-peptidemicrovascular complicationspancreatic reservetype 1 diabetes

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