The effect of glycemic variability on DNA damage in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

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Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the extent of DNA damage in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes and the influence of glycemic variability on DNA damage. Method: The study involved 50 patients under the age of 18 with type 1 diabetes and 21 healthy control individuals. The Medtronic iProTM2 Enlite Glucose Sensor® was implanted, and continuous glucose monitoring metrics were calculated, including standard deviation, glucose management indicator, coefficient of variation, time in range, time below range, and time above range. Blood samples were also taken to assess DNA damage and HbA1c levels. Results: The mean age of children with type 1 diabetes was 13.69±2.99 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 30:20. DNA damage was found to be similar in patients with type 1 DM and in a healthy control group. However, among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus, head length, a measure of undamaged DNA, was significantly higher in patients with good glycemic control (HbA1c≤7.5%) than in those with poor glycemic control (HbA1c>7.5%). A positive correlation was observed between DNA damage parameters and % coefficient of variation, a marker of glycemic variability. Conclusion: The correlation between the coefficient of variation and DNA damage demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining consistent glycemic management in diabetes.