Gender-Based Differences in CRP and HbA1c Levels and Their Association with Diabetic Patients in Shekhan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder defined by persistent hyperglycemia, and its progression is often evaluated through biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), an indicator of inflammation, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which reflects glycemic control. Gender-related differences in these biomarkers may influence disease patterns, especially in regions like Shekhan where healthcare challenges exist. This study focused on measuring CRP and HbA1c among diabetic patients based on gender, examining their correlation within male and female groups, and determining how demographic factors including age, smoking, and diabetes medication affect these markers. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 100 diabetic patients (39 males and 61 females) in Shekhan, Iraq, and data collection covered demographics, comorbidities, lifestyle factors, and treatment details. Poor glycemic control was defined as HbA1c ? 7%, while CRP > 6 mg/L was considered abnormal. Results indicated that 64% of participants had good glycemic control (HbA1c < 7%), with males showing better control (71.8%) than females (59%), although this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.194). Elevated CRP levels were present in 18% of patients, also without a significant gender difference (p = 0.586), but females receiving combined insulin and oral therapy showed significantly higher CRP levels (p < 0.0001). Combined therapy was further associated with poor glycemic control in both genders (p = 0.020 in males; p < 0.0001 in females). Hypertension (41%) and cardiovascular disease (31%) were the most frequent comorbidities. Overall, the findings suggest that gender disparities in glycemic control and inflammation highlight the importance of personalized management and routine monitoring, while future research should continue to explore gender-specific diabetes strategies.