B12 Deficiency in Diabetes

B12 Deficiency in Diabetes: Although metformin use and advanced age are associated with vitamin B12 deficiency and often present in Type 2 diabetic patients, the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in the diabetic population is unknown. So in a cross sectional study of 203 outpatient Type 2’s they looked at B12 deficiencies. The results found a 22% prevalence of metabolically confirmed B12 deficiency in the primary care Type 2 diabetic population. Although further research needs to be performed to determine the clinical implications of the findings, B12 deficiency should be considered in Type 2 diabetic patients, especially those taking metformin. Furthermore, a daily multivitamin may protect against B12 deficiency.
The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine September-October 2009 22 (5): 528-534 (2009) Abstract.