Comparative Study of Microalbuminuria in Relation with Hba1c Levels in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is associated with microvascular complications, notably diabetic nephropathy, for which microalbuminuria is an early marker. The association between glycemic control, as reflected by HbA1c, and microalbuminuria in Indian populations remains incompletely characterized. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between HbA1c levels and microalbuminuria among patients with T2DM. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 100 adult T2DM patients at a tertiary care hospital in India over 18 months. Demographic data, clinical history, and laboratory parameters including HbA1c, fasting and postprandial blood sugars, renal function tests, and urine albumin were recorded. Participants were grouped based on HbA1c (<7.5%, 7.5–10%, >10%) and categorized according to urine albumin levels. Associations were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and chi-square test; p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 53.1 ± 11.1 years; 57% were male. Most (84%) were managed with oral hypoglycemic agents. The mean HbA1c was 7.44 ± 1.18%. Microalbuminuria was present in 60% of patients, and mean urine albumin was 83.5 ± 79.2 mg/g. Patients with HbA1c <7.5% had significantly lower urine albumin levels (34.7 ± 26.2 mg/g) than those with higher HbA1c (7.5–10%: 142.7 ± 69.6 mg/g; >10%: 254.4 ± 35.6 mg/g; p < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was found between HbA1c and urine albumin (r = 0.914, p < 0.001). All patients with HbA1c ≥7.5% had microalbuminuria. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a strong, statistically significant association between poor glycemic control and increased prevalence and severity of microalbuminuria in T2DM patients. Regular screening for microalbuminuria and maintenance of target HbA1c levels are essential strategies to prevent or delay the onset of diabetic nephropathy and reduce renal and cardiovascular risk in Indian patients with T2DM.