Spirometric Indices in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in a Nigerian Tertiary Institution

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a non-communicable disease of global health importance. It is a metabolic disorder caused by increased levels of blood glucose over a prolonged period of time. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is usually associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Several studies have also revealed that diabetes mellitus hampers pulmonary functions. This study was aimed at estimating the spirometric indices in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study of T2DM patients and apparently healthy control attending the medical outpatient clinic in a tertiary institution in south western Nigeria. Results: A total of 146 participants with 73 patients with T2DM and 73 control groups. There were no significant differences in the age, body mass index, and gender distribution of the diabetics and control. However, patients with diabetes had higher SBP (133.2±20.17 mmHg vs 111.6±6.5 mmHg p<0.0001), and DBP (78.4±11.8mmHg vs 73.7±6.3 mmHg, p=0.003) when compared to the control. The mean FEV (1.98±0.5 vs 2.09±1.2, p=0.033), FVC (2.35±0.6 vs 2.53±1.3, p=0.045) and FEV/FVC ratio (83.61±7.2 vs 81.14±10.7, p=0.029) were significantly lower in diabetic patients when compared to matched controls. There was no significant difference in the PEF and FEF of both groups. Conclusion: Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients had significant decrease in their spirometric indices, hence pulmonary function should be included in the periodic comprehensive diabetic check for holistic management.