Evaluation of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on Metformin at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda

Diabetes Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity 2026 Open access

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Authors: Hassan Ali, Ezera Agwu, Mutaz Ali, Yahye Mohamed Jama, A. A. S. Ahmed, Mohamed Abdi Yusuf, Abdirahman Ali Araye, Isse Muse Osobow, Abdisalam Ahmed Sandeyl, Zakaria Ahmed, Nixson Onyanga, Fatima Nor
+5 more Abukar Husein Mohamed, Abdifatah Hersi Karshe, Abishir Mohamud Hirsi, Ayan Mohamed, Mohamed Jayte
DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s562440
Cited by: 1
References: 22

Abstract

Background: Metformin is the cornerstone of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management but has been linked to vitamin B12 deficiency (VB12D), a condition with potential hematological, neurological, and neuropsychiatric consequences. Despite this association, little is known about its burden in Uganda. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, associated factors, and clinical outcomes of VB12D among patients with T2DM on metformin at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital (HRRH). Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted involving 257 adult T2DM patients on metformin attending the diabetic clinic at HRRH between February and April 2024. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and chart reviews. Serum vitamin B12 levels were measured using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Deficiency was defined as levels

Fields of Study & Subjects

Folate and B Vitamins Research Alcoholism and Thiamine Deficiency Porphyrin Metabolism and Disorders

Publication details

Journal / source
Diabetes Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Volume
Volume 19
Pages
1–11
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN