Assessment of the Oxidative Stress Status in those with Diabetes and Hypertension Attending Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), Nigeria

Diabetes is a serious, long-term condition with a major impact on the lives and wellbeing of individuals, families, and societies worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the impact of oxidative stress on individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension who were receiving care at the Endocrinology unit of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH). A total of 54 subjects, comprising both males and females, were randomly selected for the study. The subjects included 27 patients diagnosed with T2DM and hypertension, as well as 27 healthy volunteers who were recruited as a control group. The study focused on assessing various parameters related to oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activity. The evaluation of oxidant status involved measuring Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, which serve as a marker for lipid peroxidation, as well as Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and Lipid profile. Additionally, the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH), was examined. Demographic information, lifestyle factors, and clinical assessments were also collected during the study. The results showed that HbA1c levels were significantly higher in diabetic patients compared to the healthy participants. Furthermore, the diabetic group exhibited higher MDA activity, indicating increased lipid peroxidation, compared to the control group (P = 0.001). In terms of antioxidant enzyme activity, the diabetic group showed elevated levels of SOD, CAT, and GSH compared to the control group (P = 0.001). Regarding lifestyle factors, there was a significant difference (P = 0.001) in lipid profiles between diabetic and non-diabetic individuals who engaged in regular exercise compared to those who did not exercise. Similarly, diabetic individuals who had consultations with a registered dietician or an Endocrinologist also demonstrated significantly improved lipid profiles compared to those who did not seek professional advice. Notably, diabetics who exercised regularly and received dietary guidance exhibited significantly higher levels of HDL compared to those who did not engage in exercise or receive dietary counseling. In conclusion, this study highlighted the association between oxidative stress and T2DM with hypertension. The findings emphasized the importance of managing oxidative stress through lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and dietary interventions, in improving lipid profiles and potentially mitigating the impact of diabetes on individuals' health and well-being.