Association between Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (Mgd) Severity and Glycosylated Hemoglobin Levels (Hba1c) In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is associated with various ocular surface disorders, including Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Poor glycemic control may influence the severity of MGD, but the relationship remains underexplored.

Objective: To evaluate the association between MGD severity and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients with T2DM.

Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study included 90 patients with T2DM and MGD. HbA1c was measured using an NGSP-certified method. Patients were categorised into two groups: HbA1c < 6.5% and ≥ 6.5%. MGD severity was graded (minimal, mild, moderate, severe) using the AAO BCSC scale by a single ophthalmologist. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between HbA1c levels and MGD severity.

Results: The mean age of participants was 58.28 ± 11.32 years, with 55.6% males. Most patients (81.1%) had HbA1c ≥ 6.5%. Mild MGD was most common (33.3%), followed by moderate (26.7%), minimal (22.2%), and severe (17.8%). Patients with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% had a significantly higher proportion of moderate-to-severe MGD (54.8%), whereas those with HbA1c < 6.5% had only minimal to mild disease. A statistically significant association was observed between HbA1c levels and MGD severity (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Higher HbA1c levels are significantly associated with increased severity of MGD in T2DM patients. Effective glycemic control and regular ophthalmic evaluation are essential for early detection and prevention of disease progression.