Treatment of type 1 diabetes is a challenging issue in South East Asia. Unlike in the developed countries, patients have to procure insulin, glucometer strips and other treatment facilities from their own pockets. Coupled with poor resources are the difficulties with diagnosis, insulin initiation, insulin storage, marital and emotional challenges. Being a disease affecting only a minority of people, it is largely ignored by the governments and policy makers. Comprehensive diagnostic, treatment and team based educational facilities are available only in the speciality diabetes centers in the private sector whereas majority of the subjects with type 1 diabetes are from a poor socio-economic background. Unlike in the Western world, being known as a diabetes patient is a social sigma and poses huge emotional burden living with the disease and getting married. Even with best of the resources, long-term treatment of type 1 diabetes still remains a huge challenge across the globe. In this review, authors from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Bangladesh detail the country-specific challenges and discuss the possible solutions.

The metabolic syndrome is found to be more frequent in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The presence of inflammatory markers in circulation, sputum, and broncho-alveolar fluid suggest systemic inflammation is one of the potential mechanisms responsible for both COPD and metabolic syndrome. Physical inactivity, skeletal muscle dysfunction, hypogonadism, and steroid use are also important causes of the metabolic syndrome in COPD. Obesity and insulin resistance is found to be more common in mild to moderate stages (I and II) of COPD. Patients with COPD and the metabolic syndrome have increase risk of morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular disease. This review describes in details the various components of metabolic syndrome and its impact on long outcomes in COPD patients.

The most commonly used oral drug in treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM) after metformin are sufonylureas (SUs) based on the confidence gained over the several decades and because of its cheaper cost. Unfortunately, SUs are associated with secondary failure and sometimes associated with therapy related severe hypoglycaemia limiting its compliance and wider utility in current clinical practice. Although large randomised trials could not associate SUs with any obvious increase in cardiovascular (CV) mortality, some recent larger databases showing divergent results suggesting increasingly CV signals and this might put SUs in difficulty given the availability of other safer alternatives. In recent years, incretin-based therapies like dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4I) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist (GLP-1A) are gaining popularity primarily because of their advantage of weight reduction/neutrality and minimal hypoglycemia along with the perception of possible pleiotropic CV benefit mainly derived from pooled CV data of their trials. Sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2I) are another new promising molecule currently looking for its space in the management of T2DM. Insulin could be utilized at any place when required and in this regard outcomes reduction with an initial glargine intervention (ORIGIN) study also suggested that basal insulin glargine could be safely used even in early stage. This review will discuss what could be possibly be the best option as a second line oral agent, once metformin monotherapy becomes ineffective.

Context: There is little data correlating dietary fibre (DF) intake and cardiovascular risk in Asian Indians with diabetes. Aim: To assess the DF intake and its association with lipid profile (total serum cholesterol and low density lipoprotein [LDL] - cholesterol levels) in urban Asian Indians with diabetes. Subjects and Methods: Dietary assessment using validated Food Frequency Questionnaire was conducted in 1191 free-living adults with known diabetes in the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study. Subjects taking medication for dyslipidemia, and those with cardiovascular disease and implausible energy intake (n = 262) were excluded, leaving 929 participants. Anthropometric and relevant biochemical parameters were measured using standardized techniques. Results: Diabetic individuals who consumed DF < median intake (29 g/day) had a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (49.5% vs. 40.1% [P = 0.01]) and higher LDL cholesterol (46.2% vs. 35.5% [P = 0.001]) than those in the > median intake of DF group. The risk of hypercholesterolemia (odds ratio [OR] =1.38 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.85], P = 0.04), and high LDL cholesterol (OR: 1.43 [95% CI: 1.06-1.94], P = 0.02) was higher among those whose DF intake was less than the median. Serum triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol were not associated with DF intake. The main sources of DF were vegetables and legumes. Conclusion: In urban Asian Indians with diabetes, lower DF intake is positively related to total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

Introduction: Metabolic abnormalities are often common among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is increasingly being used as a screening tool for dyslipidemia as it predicts the presence of small, dense, and highly atherogenic low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles. The aim of this study was to identify the pattern and predictors of an abnormal atherogenic index in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-naïve HIV patients. Materials and Methods: HAART-naïve patients with HIV infection were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure, CD4 count, viral load, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profiles were determined. Total cholesterol (TCH)/HDL, triglyceride (TG)/HDL, and LDL/HDL ratios were calculated. The AIP was calculated as log (TG/HDL). The correlations between AIP and the other lipoprotein ratios and predictors of AIP were determined using stepwise multiple linear regression. P < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: A total of 353 patients with a mean age of 37.3 (9.6) years were recruited for this study. Low HDL level was the most common abnormality in 222 (62.9%) patients while elevated TCH was seen in 54 (15.3%) patients. Those with medium risk (AIP 0.1-0.24) and high risk category (AIP > 0.24) constituted up to 226 (64%) of the patients. There were significant correlations between AIP and CD4 count, body mass index, LDL, TCH/HDL, and LDL/HDL. Predictors of AIP were CD4 count, TCH/HDL, and LDL/HDL. Conclusion: Abnormal AIP is frequent in HAART-naïve HIV patients and is inversely related to their level of immunity. We recommend that AIP estimation should be part of baseline assessment of HIV patients before the commencement of therapy.

Background: The aim of this study was to detect the prevalence of thyroid abnormalities among children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Upper Egypt and its relationship with disease-related variables. Design: Cross-sectional controlled study. Patients and Methods: The study included 94 children and adolescents with T1DM (Group 1) attending for regular follow-up in the diabetes clinic of Assiut Children University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt were enrolled in the study and 60 healthy subjects matching in age and sex were taken as a control (Group 2). History taking, clinical examination, measurement of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine, anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) antibodies levels as well as HbA1c were measured Results: Mean TSH levels were significantly higher in (Group 1) when compared to control (P < 0.01). Six children (6.3%) were found to have subclinical hypothyroidism in Group 1 compared with two children (2.1%) in the control group (P < 0.001) two children (2.1%) were found to have clinical hypothyroidism in Group 1 compared with non in the control group. Positive levels of anti-TPOAb and anti-TgAb were found in 9 (9.5%) and 6 (6.3%) in Group 1 compared with 2 (3.3)% and 1 (1.6%) of controls respectively (P < 0.01). Cases with hypothyroidism were significantly older, had longer duration of DM, higher body mass index and higher HbA1c compared with those without hypothyroidism. TSH had significant positive correlations to age (r = 0.71, P < 0.001), diabetes duration (r = 0.770, P < 0.001), Anti-TPO level (r = 0.678, P < 0.01), HbAIc level (r = −0.644, P < 0.01) and significant negative correlation with FT4 (r = −0.576, P = 0.01). Conclusion: The present study reported high prevalence of thyroid abnormalities in children and in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes in Upper Egypt. The study recommended yearly evaluation thyroid function tests and thyroid antibodies in all children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes commencing from the onset of diabetes.

Context: India leads the world with largest number of diabetic patients and is often referred to as the diabetes capital of the world. Diabetic dyslipidemia in India is one of the main cause for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) mortality. Although diabetes continues to be a major lifestyle condition in India, there is a lack of studies in India on whether dyslipidemia in Indian diabetics is being adequately controlled. Our study provides critical insights into the insights into proportion of diabetes patients achieving lipid goal in India. Aims: The primary objective of our study was to assess the control of dyslipidemia in the Indian diabetic population treated with lipid lowering drugs (LLDs), as per American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2010 guidelines. Settings and Design: The study was carried out in a real world Indian clinical setting involving 178 sites. This is a multicenter, noninterventional, and cross-sectional observational study. Materials and Methods: A total of 5400 adult subjects with established type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and dyslipidemia were recruited for the study. Patients in the study were on LLD at a stable dose for at least last 3 months before the designated study visit. Routine lipid profile tests were conducted for all patients. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics was used to analyze qualitative and discrete variables. Chi-square test and t-test were conducted to assess the existence of statistically significant association between the variables. Results: A total of 5400 patients with T2DM from 178 centers across India were recruited. Out of the total population, 56.75% (N = 3065) of them were males. Primary end-point of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level below ADA 2010 target was achieved in a total of 48.74% (N = 2632) patients. Gender was significantly associated with lipid levels and age was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with all lipid levels. Control rates of other lipid parameters like high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, and total cholesterol in the study were 60.48% (N = 3236), 57.54% (N = 3107), and 92.24% (N = 4981) respectively. Among those with overt cardiovascular disease (CVD), target LDL-C level of < 70 mg/dL was achieved in 22.87% (70 out of 306) patients. The LDL-C levels of 49.03% (N = 1768) patients who were on statin therapy were within target levels, while 53.46% (N = 634) patients who were on statin and their combinations with other LLDs had their LDL-C levels within the stipulated range. Conclusions: This study has reveled that dyslipidemia control in Indian T2DM patients is very poor with almost half of them not reaching their LDL -C goal. Dyslipidemia being one of the main risk factors for CVD in T2DM patients there is a need to treat dyslipidemia aggressively to reduce risk of future CV events.

Objective: Two approaches are used to treat Graves' disease with radioiodine ( ¹³¹ I)-the fixed dose approach and the other based on dosimetry. A prospective study was performed to compare the results of these two approaches in a randomized patient population, as such study is lacking in the Indian population till date. Materials and Methods: Patients with Graves' disease were randomized into two groups: (1) Fixed dose group and the (2) Calculated dose group, each comprising of 20 patients. All the patients underwent detailed clinical and biochemical evaluation. Thyroid mass was determined by high resolution ultrasound machine with linear transducer of 7-11 MHz. Patients were given 185-370 kBq (5-10 uCi) of ¹³¹ I and 24 hr radioiodine uptake (RAIU) was calculated using thyroid uptake probe and thyroid phantom. Fixed dose group patients were administered 185MBq of ¹³¹ I. Calculated dose group patients were given ¹³¹ I as per the following formula: Calculated dose = [3700 kBq/g × estimated thyroid wt. (g)] χ 24 hr RAIU (%). Success of first dose of radioiodine was defined as clinically/biochemically euthyroid/hypothyroid status at the end of 3 months without the need for further therapy. Results: In the fixed dose group, eight patients were hyperthyroid, four were euthyroid, and eight were hypothyroid after the first dose at 3 months. Success rate of first dose was 60%. In calculated dose group, seven patients were hyperthyroid, eight were euthyroid, and five were hypothyroid. Success rate of first dose was 65%. Conclusions: There is no statistically significant difference between the success rates of the two methods at 3 months. Hence, fixed dose approach may be used for treatment of Graves' disease as it is simple and convenient for the patient. Longer follow-up with higher number of patients should be done to confirm or contradict our findings.

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is common in Indian patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD), but optimal dose of cholecalciferol is unclear. Materials and Methods: A total of 45 consenting patients were randomized to intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, patients (n = 35) with serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) < 30 ng/mL (n = 33), received oral cholecalciferol 60,000 units/week for 6 weeks. The serum levels of 25(OH)D, calcium, phosphorus, albumin, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were measured at 0, 6, and 12 weeks. In the control group (n = 10), these were estimated at 0 and 6 weeks. Results: In the intervention group, 25/35 patients completed the supplementation at 6 weeks and 20/35 were available at 12 weeks. The mean baseline level of 25(OH)D was 9.59 ± 7.59 ng/mL, and after 6 weeks 19.51 ± 4.27 ng/mL, mean increase being 9.99 ± 6.83 ng/mL, which was highly significant (P < 0.0001). After discontinuing supplementation at 6 weeks, serum 25(OH)D level dropped significantly from 6 to 12 weeks [−2.84 ± 6.25 ng/mL (P = 0.04)]. However, it was still significantly higher at 12 weeks (16.08 ± 8.27 ng/mL) as compared with the baseline. PTH and calcium did not change significantly with supplementation. The change in serum 25(OH)D level from baseline to 6 weeks in the intervention group was inversely related to baseline 25(OH)D levels and patient's weight. In the control group, change in 25(OH)D from baseline to 6 weeks was not significant. Conclusion: Supplementation with cholecalciferol 60,000 unit/week for 6 weeks was insufficient to achieve optimal levels of 25(OH)D in Indian patients with CKD on MHD.

Aims: Percutaneous aspiration and ethanol injection (PEI) is effective in managing predominantly cystic (>50% cystic) thyroid nodules with efficacy ranging from 38-85%. We aimed to evaluate efficacy, safety, and factors determining outcomes of PEI in managing simple cystic (purely cystic) vs. complex cystic (having both cystic and solid components) thyroid nodules. Materials and Methods: Predominantly cystic thyroid nodules, without any ultrasonography and/or fine needle aspiration, evidence of malignancy were aspirated ultrasonography guided. Sterile 100% ethanol (50-100% volume aspirated) was injected and reviewed monthly for 3 months and thereafter 3 monthly. Responders were defined as ≥ 50% reduction in nodule volume. Results: Sixty-five patients out of 152 considered underwent PEI. Sixty patients [simple cystic (42) and complex cystic (18)] with mean follow-up of 12.3 ± 2.88 months were analyzed. Response rate of PEI was 78.33% [simple cystic (92.86%) and complex cystic (44.44%) nodules; P < 0.001]. Also, 31.67% patients achieved remission at 1 ^st month. And, 46.67% patients achieved remission between 1-6-months follow-up. Kaplan Meier analysis showed significantly improved outcomes in patients with simple cystic nodules (P < 0.001). Cox-regression revealed type of nodule (simple cystic vs. complex cystic) to be predictive of outcome (P = 0.034). Complex cystic nodules were 67.6% less likely to go into remission, compared to simple cystic nodules. Baseline nodule size, aspirate, or volume of ethanol injected did not predict outcome. Conclusions: PEI is safe and should be treatment of choice for simple cystic thyroid nodules. PEI for complex cystic thyroid nodules are associated with lower response, increased recurrence, and need for repeated PEI.

Context: Radioactive Iodine (RAI) is a common therapy for hyperthyroidism. However hyperthyroidism recurs or persists in 15-18% of patients after RAI. Studies report variable percentage of failure after RAI therapy depending on several variables including I ¹³¹0 . Lithium enhances efficacy of treatment by increasing RAI retention in the thyroid. Aims: To evaluate the efficacy of Lithium to RAI therapy in terms of cure, reduction of mean thyroid volume, and its safety. Settings and Design: A prospective comparative study. Subjects and Methods: Forty hyperthyroid patients were assigned to two groups, RAI alone and RAI plus lithium and followed for 1 year. Lithium was given in a dose of 900 mg/day in three divided doses for 6 days starting on the day of RAI therapy. Total T3, total T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were done at baseline, 2,4,6,9, and 12 months. Ultrasound of thyroid was done at baseline and at the end of 1 year. Monitoring was done for side effects of lithium and RAI therapy. Statistical Analysis: Cure rate and time to cure were assessed by Chi-square test. Mean change in thyroid volume was compared by student's t-test. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: RAI combined with lithium had a trend towards better cure rate (90%) compared to RAI alone (70%) (P 0.11). Mean time taken to cure was 4.69 months in RAI plus lithium and 7.12 months in RAI alone (P 0.001). Mean change in thyroid volume was similar in both the groups (P = 0.75). There were no side effects of Lithium or RAI. Conclusions: RAI therapy combined with lithium showed a trend towards higher cure rate, safe and time to cure was less than RAI alone. Hence RAI combined with lithium is a better option in the management of hyperthyroidism than RAI alone.

Objectives : To measure Visceral Fat (VF) and Subcutaneous Fat (SCF) by ultrasound, in obese and non-obese diabetics and obese and non-obese non diabetics, in a South Indian (Asian Indian) Population and correlate them with Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC), components of metabolic syndrome and Insulin Resistance (IR) Research Design and Methods: This was a prospective observational study, 80 diabetics (40 obese and 40 non obese) and 80 non diabetics (40 obese and 40 non obese) a total of 160 subjects were enrolled, out of whom 153 completed the study. The subjects were evaluated with respect to BMI, WC, Blood Pressure (BP); Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Fasting Insulin levels (FIL), HbA1C and Lipid profile.The SCF and VF were measured by Ultrasonography.The results were statistically analyzed. Results: WC correlated significantly with VF in all the groups. Diabetics had more VF compared to non-diabetics. Insulin resistance was significant in all the groups; however diabetics had greater levels of IR, BMI, WC, VF and SCF had no correlation with IR and had no significant correlation with metabolic parameters. Conclusions: In this study population, WC was found to be a useful surrogate measure of VF conforming to its well established applicability in other populations. Contrary to other studies elsewhere, SCF and VF were found to be poor indicators of Insulin Resistance. BMI, WC, VF and SCF were not useful in the prediction of metabolic syndrome. Ultrasound was found to be an easier and economic method of measuring abdominal adiposity and actual measurement of abdominal fat was more informative than anthropometric measurements.

Background: Obesity has become a worldwide epidemic and its prevalence continues to increase at a rapid rate in various populations and across all age-group. The effect of meal skipping, both behaviorally and physiologically, may have an impact on the outcome of weight-loss efforts. Aims and Objectives: Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of breakfast skipping and obesity in subjects. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the patients visited to a metabolic clinic of the city was done. Results: One hundred and eighty-six eligible subjects were included for the study. A questionnaire was used for data collection which included information regarding dietary factors and exercise schedule/physical activity. A 24-hour dietary recall method was used to assess the amount of food consumed. Anthropometric measurements were taken. Results: Overweight is generally higherin females than males. The prevalence of overweight was higher among those who consumed more than recommended calories than those who were taking recommended or fewer calories per day. The average intake of fat and protein by the study subjects was quite different than the recommended intake of these food items. There was positive association between fat (oil) intake and overweight status and a negative association between protein intake and overweight status which was statistically significant. Conclusion: The higher prevalence of overweight and obesity in the present study could be because of imbalance in the diet and faulty food habits prevalent in the region.

The use of radioiodine as the first line of treatment in Graves' disease is restricted in India because of its limited availability and an unrealistic risk perception associated with it. Additionally, the effectiveness of radioiodine ablation in Graves' disease is influenced by many factors. Prior medical antithyroid therapy is one such important factor. Aims: To analyze the efficacy of low dose radioiodine therapy (5 mCi) in treatment of naive patients of Graves' disease in comparison to that in which it was already primed with an antithyroid drug, carbimazole. Settings and Design: A non-randomized, interventional study conducted in the Department of Medicine and Endocrinology of a tertiary care institute in South India. Materials and Methods: The study had two groups; Group A (36 treatment naive, uncomplicated Graves' disease patients) and B (34 Graves' disease patients on carbimazole prior to radioiodine therapy). Both groups had baseline clinical, biochemical evaluation and were reassessed at 3 and 6 months for evaluating the clinical status for possible documentation of cure. Results: The cure rate was 61.1% in drug naive group and 58.8% in pretreated group at 6 months following radioiodine (P = 0.845). Higher baseline 999m technicium (99m Tc) uptake, male gender, BMI and higher baseline free thyroxine (fT4) level predicted treatment failure following radioiodine therapy. Conclusions: Administration of carbimazole prior to low dose radioiodine therapy does not alter the efficacy of radioiodine. Low fixed dose (5 mCi) of radioactive iodine may be a safe and effective primary therapeutic option in Graves' disease patients pretreated with antithyroid drugs.

Introduction: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has been associated with increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and subsequent insulin resistance and epidemiologically linked to type 2 diabetes. Objectives: To study the prevalence rate of H. pylori infection in type 2 diabetes and its relation with HbA1C levels. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional case-control study, 80 patients (≥18 years) who met the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) criteria for diabetes were recruited. Similarly, 60 age, sex, and education matched healthy controls were taken. They were tested for H. pylori infection by rapid urease test, histological examination of antral endoscopic biopsy specimens and serology. The relationship between H. pylori infection and levels of plasma glucose and HbA1C was assessed. Results: Out of the 80 patients of type 2 diabetes, H. pylori infection was found in 62 (77.5%) while it was present in only 35 (58.3%) of 60 controls, which was found to be significant (Chi-square test: 5.919, df = 1, P value = 0.015). Mean HbA1C among diabetics with H. pylori infection was 8.19 ± 1.16% and without H. pylori infection was 6.9 ± 0.84% (t = 4.3872, P value = 0.0001). Conclusions: Prevalence of H. pylori infection was significantly higher in diabetes as compared to controls. Presence of H. pylori infection significantly correlated with the level of HbA1C.

Aim of the Study: To evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) and levels of bone turnover markers in Egyptian children with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) caused by 21-hydroxylase deficiency and its relationship with disease-related variables. Patients and Methods: The study population consisted of 28 children from Upper Egypt with classic CAH, their mean age 8.3 ± 2.4 years and 28 age and sex matched healthy control. They were subjected to measurement of BMD of lumbar spines (L1-L4) and femoral neck using dual-energy-X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and laboratory evaluation of bone turnover markers including Osteocalcin and serum receptor activator of nuclear factor αB-ligand (RANKL). Result: Children with CAH had significantly lower bone-mineral density (BMD) for both, vertebrae and femoral neck than controls. This difference is more obvious in children with poor control and in those receiving prednisone therapy. There was a significantly lower serum osteocalcin, and significantly higher serum RANKL levels in patients with CAH than the healthy controls. This differences is more obvious in children with poor control and in those receiving prednisone therapy. Total bone mineral content (BMC [gm]) have significant negative correlations to age (r = −0.81, P < 0.001), disease duration (r = −0.881, P < 0.001), 17 OH Progesterone level (r = −0.543, P < 0.05), RANKL level (r = −0.635, P < 0.05), and significant positive correlation with osteocalcin (r = 0.576, P < 0.001). Conclusions: Children from Upper Egypt with classic CAH may have reduced BMD and increase bone turnover compared with controls. This difference is more obvious in children with poor control and in those receiving prednisone therapy. Recommendations: Active monitoring of BMD in CAH children using Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning. Furthermore, effort should be done to bring hydrocortisone to Upper Egypt to replace prednisone in children with classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Background: Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels vary with the time of the day and probably in relation to food. In this study, we addressed the question of whether a fasting or non-fasting sample would make a clinically significant difference in the interpretation of thyroid function tests. Materials and Methods: Fifty seven adult ambulatory patients were selected from our laboratory database and were divided into Group A [Normal free thyroxine (T4) and TSH], Group B (subclinical hypothyroid with increased TSH and normal free T4) and Group C (overt hypothyroid with low free T4 and high TSH). Thyroid functions (free T4 and TSH) were done in fasting state and 2 hours postprandially. Results: TSH was suppressed in all subjects after food irrespective of the fasting levels. Free T4 values did not change significantly. This resulted in reclassification of 15 out of 20 (75%) subjects as subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) based on fasting values whose TSH values were otherwise within range in the postprandial sample. This may have an impact on the diagnosis and management of hypothyroidism especially where even marginal changes in TSH may be clinically relevant as in SCH and in pregnancy. Conclusion: TSH levels showed a statistically significant decline postprandially in comparison to fasting values. This may have clinical implications in the diagnosis and management of hypothyroidism, especially SCH.

Background: South Asians are more prone to develop metabolic syndrome (MetS). The additive predictive value of components of MetS for cardiovascular diseases is still debated. We undertook this study to evaluate the association of MetS and its components with severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). Materials and Methods: Three hundred patients with known coronary disease above the age of 25 years were included in this study. Blood samples were collected for biochemical markers. Patients were stratified into subjects with and without MetS (International Diabetes Federation, IDF, criteria) and severity of CAD (number of vessel involved). Results: Mean age of the patient in the study was 60.9 ± 12.4 years (male, M: 72%; female, F: 28%). MetS was present in 64% patients. Patients with MetS had more severe CAD compared to those without MetS. Triple vessel disease (TVD) was present in 62.5% of patients with MetS compared to 34.3% among without MetS (P < 0.0001). The percent number of patients with TVD showed increasing trend with increasing number of components of MetS (0-0%; 1-20%; 2-27.5%; 3-47.8%; 4-72.6%; 5-78.3%; Chi square for trend < 0.0001). Inflammatory markers [interleukin (IL) 6: 77.67 ± 79.48 vs. 41.21 ± 60.72 pg/ml, P < 0.0001; tumor nuclear factor (TNF)-α: 28.0 ± 47.49 vs 20.43 ± 24.5 pg/ml, P < 0.0001; high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP): 14.30 ± 9.91 vs. 7.02 ± 7.18 mg/L, P < 0.0001], insulin resistance [homeostatic model analysis insulin resistance (HOMA-IR): 22.33 ± 23.37 vs. 10.86 ± 13.90, P < 0.0001] were higher and insulin sensitivity [quantitative insulin check index (QUICKI): 0.26 ± 0.03 vs. 0.30 ± 0.04, P < 0.0001] was significantly lower in subjects with MetS compared to subjects without MetS. Among lipids, total cholesterol were comparable but triglyceride (175 ± 42 vs. 179 ± 48 vs. 180 ± 47 mg/dl, P < 0.0001) was high and high-density lipoprotein (HDL; 44.72 ± 7.63 vs. 39.96 ± 8.70 vs. 36.05 ± 8.84, P < 0.0001) was low in subjects with TVD compared to others. Similarly, percentage of patients with diabetes (7.5% vs. 26.3% vs. 63.7%, P < 0.0001) and hypertension (34.3% vs. 56.6% vs. 77.7%, P < 0.0001) were higher in subjects with TVD compared to others. Conclusions: There is a strong correlation of MetS and its components with severity of CAD.

Aim: To explore the clinical safety and effectiveness of insulin detemir (IDet) in a subgroup of Indian patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) switched from either insulin glargine (IGlar) or neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin in the 24-week, non-interventional A ₁ chieve study. Materials and Methods : Indian patients with T2D switching from pre-study IGlaror NPH insulin to IDet were included. Safety and effectiveness outcomes were evaluated by the physicians in local clinical settings. Results : A total of 102 patients switched from IGlar to IDet (GLA group) and 39 patients switched from NPH insulin to IDet (NEU group). At baseline, the mean glycated hemoglobin A _1c (HbA _1c ) levels were 9.9 ± 1.8% in the GLA group and 9.1 ± 1.2% in the NEU group. No serious adverse drug reactions, serious adverse events, or major hypoglycemic events were reported in either group throughout the study. At baseline and Week 24, 11.8% and 7.5% of patients, respectively, reported overall hypoglycemic events in the GLA group. No hypoglycemic events were reported at Week 24 in the NEU group. At Week 24, the mean HbA _1c levels were 7.6 ± 0.9% in the GLA group and 7.3 ± 0.7% in the NEU group. The mean fasting plasma glucose, postprandial plasma glucose and quality of life also appeared to improve over 24 weeks. Conclusion: Switching to IDet therapy from IGlar and NPH insulin was well-tolerated and appeared to be associated with improved glycogenic control in Indian patients.

Context: Accumulating evidence suggests that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of stroke. Contributing mechanisms have been linked to the association of vitamin D deficiency with the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerosis, however, the evidence is conflicting. Aims: This study sought to determine the association of vitamin D deficiency with ischemic stroke and its risk factors. Settings and Design: Cross-sectional case control study. Subjects and Methods: We measured serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH) D] and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels in 73 patients of ischemic stroke, presenting within 7 days of onset of stroke and compared with 70 age and gender matched controls. Statistical Analysis Used: The statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, version 17.0 for Windows). Results: The mean age of patients and controls was 59.9 ± 11.2 years and 57.9 ± 9.7 years, respectively (P = 0.26). Of 67.1% patients were men as compared to 65.7% controls (P = 0.86). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency (P = 0.25), mean 25(OH) D levels (P = 0.75), and iPTH levels (P = 0.10) between cases and controls. No association of vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency was found with the prevalent risk factors in cases of ischemic stroke. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency does not bear an association with ischemic stroke or its risk factors.

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been linked to impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes (T2D) in humans. The aim of the present study was to find the vitamin D status in newly detected T2D patients compared with healthy controls. Materials and Methods: One hundred and two, newly detected T2D patients and similar number of age, body mass index (BMI), and gender matched healthy controls without diabetes were studied. In addition to basic information, metabolic parameters and serum 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25HD) were measured in both the groups. Results: Overall 25HD, was lower (mean ± SD, 18.81 ± 15.18 ng/ml) in patients with T2D as compared to healthy controls (28.46 ± 18.89 ng/ml) (P = 0.00). Taking a cut of 30 ng/ml, 81% of T2D patients had either VDD or insufficiency compared to 67% of healthy control subjects. Severe VDD (25HD of < 5 ng/ml) was seen in 16.2% of patients with diabetes and 2.5% of control subjects. Levels of 25HD had a negative correlation with HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose. Conclusions: VDD is common in people with new onset T2D.

Diabetes mellitus is becoming a global health issue with more than 80% diabetics living in developing countries. India accounts for 62.4 million diabetics (2011). Indian Council of Medical Research India Diabetes Study (ICMR-INDIAB) study showed highest weighted prevalence rate in the north India among all studied regions. Diabetes in north India has many peculiarities in all aspects from risk factors to control programmers. North Indians are becoming more prone for diabetes and dyslipidemia because rapid westernization of living style and diet due rapid migration to metropolitan cities for employment. North Indian diabetes is plagued with gender bias against females, poor quality of health services, myths, and lack of disease awareness compounded with small number of prevention and awareness programmers that too are immature to counteract the growing pandemic.

Objective: To determine the importance of screening for Thyriod disorders in the first trimester of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: The Study was conducted on 305 patients which were were randomly selected and screened on OPD basis by TSH levels (cut off level 0.10-2.50 mIU/ml). Results: In the 305 women screened mean age was 24.46 years, mean gestational age was 9.09 weeks, 89.83% were euthyroid, 9.8%were hypothyroid, 0.32% were hyperthyroid. Incidence of hypothyroidism in high risk population was 20.58% and in normal population was 6.7%. There was significant association of thyroid disorders with high risk factors (P < 0.001). In hypothyroid women 46% had adverse perinatal outcomes and 53.33% had normal outcomes. This shows statistically significant association abnormal TSH values with adverse pregnancy outcomes (P < 0.001). In abnormal perinatal outcomes 6.2% women had Caesarean section out of them 73.68% were euthyroid, 26.31% were hypothyroid 1.9% had preterm labour, out of them 50% were euthyroid, 50% were hypothyroid. Out of 2.2% spontaneous abortions 28.5% were in euthyroid group while 71.4% were in hypothyroid group. There was 1 term stillbirth in hypothyroid group.This study showed significant association between abnormal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values and adverse perinatal outcomes (P < 0.001). Conclusion: There is significant correlation between risk factors and hypothyroidism. So high risk screening is mandatory in early pregnancy. But if we screen only high risk population we would miss 4.6% cases which could have been diagnosed and treated earlier. Therefore it is important to screen all pregnant women in the first trimester, it should be made mandatory.