The relation between iron deficiency and anaemia and HbA1c levels in Norwegian adolescents. The Tromsø Study: Fit Futures

Abstract

Diabetes represents a large global health challenge. The prevalence increases – also in adolescents. HbA1c are used as a diagnostic test for diabetes. It has been seen in adults that anaemia and iron deficiency can influence HbA1c. Since iron deficiency and anaemia are frequent during adolescence, it is of clinical value to be aware of possible coherence between these and HbA1c in adolescents. In a cross section design, the relation between iron deficiency and anaemia and HbA1c was described. We found significant higher HbA1c levels in adolescents with anaemia and iron deficiency, compared to adolescents without these conditions, respectively. Some interesting gender differences in the subgroups of anaemia and ID were also found. It was not found significant higher fasting glucose levels and HOMA-IR in iron deficient- or anaemic adolescents. The study shows that HbA1c must be assessed with caution in adolescents, when anaemia or iron deficiency are present. This is of clinical importance because of the relatively high occurrence of these conditions, especially in girls at this age.