The prevalence of hepatitis B infection and anti-HCV antibody in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

Background: The liver's role in glucose metabolism and hormone regulation links liver infections to diabetes mellitus. Understanding this interaction is crucial for managing diabetes in affected patients.

Objective: Golestan Province has the highest incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in the country. The current research aimed to assess the prevalence of HBV infection and anti-HCV antibodies among diabetic patients in the region, providing insights to improve disease management and prevention.

Methods: Data from 31,803 diabetic patients, collected (2019-2023) from the NAB system at Golestan University of Medical Sciences, were used to evaluate the co-occurrence of HBV infection and anti-HCV antibodies in them. Also, this study analyzed the co-occurrence of diabetes in three/two-generation CHB (Chronic Hepatitis B) patients, and recovered patients, demographic factors, liver enzyme, and viral DNA levels. Binary logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with diabetes.

Results: HBsAg and anti-HCV antibody positivity were found in 2.52% and 0.53% of diabetic individuals, respectively. Diabetic patients with HBV infection (P-value = 0.003) or anti-HCV positivity (P-value = 0.008) had significantly lower BMIs. HBV prevalence was higher among married individuals (78.4%, P-value = 0.01) and rural residents (61.7%, P-value = 0.3). Diabetic patients with two or three generations of HBV/diabetes had higher liver enzyme levels and HBV viral loads compared to those without diabetes (P-value < 0.05).

Conclusions: In individuals with diabetes, compared to those without the disease, there was a correlation between HBV infections and altered liver function indicators, as well as HBV viral load. Additionally, familial susceptibility to HBV infection or anti-HCV antibody positivity was significant.