Serum Malondialdehyde and C-Reactive Protein Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Non-Hypertensive and Hypertensive Non-Diabetic Patients in Kogi State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: Oxidative stress and chronic low‑grade inlammation are key mechanisms linking Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension. Biomarkers such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and C‑reactive protein (CRP) provide insight into lipid peroxidation and systemic inlammation, yet data from Kogi State are limited. This study assessed serum levels of MDA and CRP among individuals with T2DM and hypertension and examined possible
gender differences. Methods: A cross‑sectional study involving 150 age‑matched adults was conducted, comprising 50 T2DM patients, 50 hypertensive patients, and 50 apparently healthy controls. Each group included 25 males and 25 females. Participants were aged 40–50 years with an overweight/obese BMI, while smokers and alcohol users were excluded. Serum MDA, CRP, total cholesterol (TC), and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were analysed photometrically. Results: Serum MDA and CRP levels were significantly higher in T2DM and hypertensive subjects than in healthy controls (p < 0.05). Female participants exhibited higher oxidative stress levels than males. These findings underscore the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in the pathophysiology of both conditions.
Conclusion: Elevated oxidative stress and inflammation in T2DM and hypertension may accelerate ageing and increase morbidity. Lifestyle interventions—including weight reduction, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity — are essential to improve cardiometabolic outcomes. Further studies are needed to determine how these biomarkers influence disease progression.