Abstract:
Aim: To examine the metabolic control and presence of complications, among a cohort of diabetic patients in Lebanon. Method: A total of 313 diabetic patients presenting for their usual care were screened in a cross-sectional manner for metabolic control and presence of complications at the American University of Beirut. Results: Only 235 subjects completed their data of whom 220 (93percent) had type 2 diabetes with mean duration of disease of 8.2 (±6.6) years. Only 30percent had haemoglobin A1C andlt; 7percent, and 35.5percent had low-density lipoprotein cholesterol andlt; 2.6 mmol-L. About 50.5percent were obese, 34.9percent current smokers, and 40.7percent had blood pressure ≥ 140-90 mmHg. Microvascular complications were present as 46.3, 39.9 and 33percent for albuminuria, neuropathy, and retinopathy, respectively. Macrovascular complications were as follows: 19.3, 18.3 and 4.1percent for coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and cerebrovascular disease, respectively. Conclusions: This study highlights the poor control and high prevalence of vascular complications among adult type 2 diabetic patients in Lebanon.