QTc Interval and Its Associated Factors in Patient With Type 2 Diabetic Mellites

There is a notable link between diabetes mellitus (DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), particularly abnormal ventricular repolarization marked by a prolonged QT interval, which significantly contributes to morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. However, no studies have been conducted in Ethiopia regarding prolonged QT intervals in Type 2 diabetic patients. Therefore, this study is aimed at examining the prevalence of prolonged QT intervals and the associated factors among Type 2 diabetic patients in selected referral hospitals in the Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 30, 2024, to September 30, 2024, involving 300 participants. Participants were selected using systematic sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure readings, and lipid profile analyses. QTc interval was determined by using digital electrocardiographic machine. The study utilized bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models to identify factors associated with prolonged QT intervals.

The average QT interval was 420 ± 4.8 ms, with 45.6% of patients exhibiting prolonged QT intervals. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified significant associations between prolonged QT intervals and factors such as age (AOR 1.11, 95% CI: 1.01-2.42), duration of diabetes (AOR 2.52, 95% CI: 1.12-5.31), body mass index (AOR 1.65, 95% CI: 1.21-3.44), fasting blood sugar (AOR 2.21, 95% CI: 1.12-6.21), sulfonylureas drug treatment (AOR 2.42, 95% CI: 1.21-5.94), HbA1c (AOR 2.78, 95% CI: 1.07-6.48), and total cholesterol (AOR 6.21, 95% CI: 4.25-11.25).

This study highlights the significant prevalence of prolonged QT intervals among Type 2 diabetic patients. Several factors significantly contribute to the likelihood of prolonged QT intervals in Type 2 diabetic patients. These include older age, longer duration of diabetes, higher BMI, elevated fasting blood sugar levels, use of sulfonylureas, higher HbA1c levels, and elevated total cholesterol. This significant finding underscores the importance of regular cardiovascular monitoring and effective management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged QT intervals in this population.