Title: Prevalence of Microalbuminuria among Type2 Diabetes Patients in Zawia City, Western Libya
Authors: Khalid Saied Osman , Ashraf Mohamed Albakoush, Azab Elsayed Azab, Hajer Ali Bshina , Ayah Abdulsalam Shalfouh, and Aesha Imad Alnaffar
Volume: 9
Issue: 4
Pages: 13-21
Publication Date: 2025/04/28
Abstract:
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications have become a global concern. Microalbuminuria is an early indicator of diabetic nephropathy, which significantly reduces the life expectancy of individuals with diabetes. However, the prevalence of these abnormalities has not been documented in Libya. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of microalbuminuria among patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 individuals, consisting of 50 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D group) and 50 healthy volunteers (Healthy group) who served as the control group. Participants were recruited from Alfa Laboratory in Zawia between February and June 2024. Blood samples were collected to measure fasting blood glucose and HbA1c, while urine samples were collected to assess urine creatinine and albumin levels. Microalbuminuria was defined as an albumin-to-creatinine ratio between 30 and 299 mg/g. Results: Among the 100 individuals (33 males and 67 females) in the diabetic group, the mean age was 55.76 ± 13.76 years. The prevalence of microalbuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes was found to be 42%. A statistically significant correlation was observed between HbA1C and the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (p.value = 0.019(. Conclusion: The prevalence of microalbuminuria among patients with T2DM in Zawia City was relatively high and increased with uncontrolled T2DM. This underscores the necessity for early detection and effective management of diabetes and its complications to mitigate the future burden of diabetic kidney disease.