Strict Glycemic Control Can Reduce Complications in Childhood-Onset Type 1 Diabetes Patients, finds study

The outcomes found that 51% of the patients (25 out of 49) developed DPN as confirmed by electrophysiological criteria. Over time, nerve conduction studies revealed significant deterioration in the amplitudes and conduction velocities of the median, peroneal and sural nerves. The patients diagnosed with DPN had a markedly longer duration of diabetes, higher wHbA1c and greater variability in HbA1c levels when compared to the individuals without neuropathy.

The study identified that a wHbA1c value of 62 mmol/mol (7.8%) or higher was associated with the development of DPN. No patients with a wHbA1c below this threshold developed neuropathy this highlighted the crucial role of maintaining lower HbA1c levels in preventing long-term complications. The presence of albuminuria and retinopathy was positively correlated with neuropathy which highlighted the interconnected nature of diabetic complications. These findings suggest that rigorous and consistent blood sugar control is essential in mitigating the risk of developing multiple diabetes-related complications.

This extensive study found that over half of the patients with childhood-onset type 1 diabetes developed DPN after 30 years. Also, maintaining a wHbA1c below 62 mmol/mol (7.8%) appears to be a key factor in preventing the onset of neuropathy. This data emphasizes the necessity for ongoing and vigilant diabetes management from an early age to reduce the risk of severe long-term health issues.

Reference:

Baldimtsi, E., Amezcua, S., Ulander, M., Hyllienmark, L., Olausson, H., Ludvigsson, J., & Wahlberg, J. (2024). HbA1c and the risk of developing peripheral neuropathy in childhood‐onset type 1 diabetes: A follow‐up study over 3 decades. In Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews (Vol. 40, Issue 5). Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/dmrr.3825