Individualized Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Iran: A Multi-Center Data Analysis

Clinical guidelines and expert committees have recently suggested that the hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) should be individualized based on various criteria. Data regarding the achievement of individualized glycemic targets in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients is scant in Iran. We intended to provide information found on real-world outcomes from the perspective of an individualized recommendation. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted in 15 diabetes centers in Iran between 2013-2017. Two steps cluster sampling selection was used to recruit 1591 patients with T2DM. Considering Ismail-Beigi’s individualized strategy, the study population was categorized into five treatment intensities of HbA1c: most intensive (≤6.5%), intensive (6.5–7.0%), less intensive (~7.0%), not intensive (7.0–8.0%), and moderated (~8.0%). The percentage of patients who met their group individualized glycemic targets was estimated as the degree of achievement of each treatment intensity. The cumulative incidence rate of early microvascular, advanced microvascular, and macrovascular complications was 53%, 25%, and 34%, respectively. Besides, 78% [77.6-79%] of patients did not achieve individualized glycemic targets.  The outcome showed poor individualized glycemic control and a high incidence of diabetes complications. Considering individualized HbA1c targets for Iranian patients with T2DM is an urgent need.