Differences in demographics, lipid profile and other clinical characteristics among type 2 diabetic patients in the state of Penang, Malaysia according to gender and races

Objectives: The present study aimed to compare between Malaysian diabetic patients who have dyslipidemia in terms of genders and races with regards to demographic, anthropometric, lipid profile and other clinical characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional study among type 2 diabetic patients who have dyslipidemia was conducted. Demographic and Clinical characteristics were collected from medical records of type 2 diabetic patients who attended Endocrine Clinic of a tertiary referral hospital in the state of Penang, Malaysia and who satisfy the eligibility criteria of the study. Results and Conclusions:In the present study, there were significant differences between female and male in terms of body mass index (BMI) (28.5 ± 5.6 and 26.6 ± 4.9, respectively). Furthermore, female gender was significantly had a higher mean level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (P < 0.001). Malay type 2 diabetic patients had higher waist circumference (WC) and BMI. In contrast, Chinese had lowest WC and BMI. Additionally, Chinese significantly had the highest HDL cholesterol compared to Malay and Indian. They also had the lowest low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides (TG) levels. Male gender, Malay and Indian races had the worst diabetic control, anthropometric and lipid profile comparing to female gender and Chinese race. Further attention should be provided to these groups. Intensive counselling regarding lifestyle changes or even treatment modifications should be considered to achieve normal blood-glucose levels and also improve dyslipidemia.