Correlation of glycemic control and proteinuria markers with renal complications in diabetes

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a major global health concern with significant microvascular complications, including diabetic nephropathy, which necessitates early detection of renal involvement using reliable biochemical markers. This study aimed to evaluate glycosylated haemoglobin levels and urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) in diabetic subjects and controls, and to assess the correlation between UPCR in random urine samples and 24-hour urinary protein excretion. Materials and methods: A total of 103 subjects were included in the study, comprising 62 diabetic and 41 non-diabetic individuals. Detailed medical histories were obtained, and relevant clinical examinations were performed. Biochemical parameters assessed included fasting blood sugar, glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), serum creatinine, urine creatinine, urine protein, UPCR, and 24-hour urinary protein excretion. Results: Diabetic subjects showed significantly higher mean levels of fasting blood sugar, serum creatinine, HbA1c, 24-hour urinary protein, and UPCR compared to non-diabetic controls (P < 0.001). A strong positive correlation was observed between fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, 24-hour urinary protein, and the protein-to-creatinine ratio. Additionally, serum creatinine levels were significantly elevated in diabetic patients with a protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) ≥0.2, suggesting significant renal involvement (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Glycosylated haemoglobin serves as a reliable marker for glycemic control, while the protein-to-creatinine ratio in random urine samples provides a practical and effective tool for early detection of renal involvement in diabetic patients.