The association of smoking status with glycemic control, metabolic profile and diabetic complications – Results of the Australian National Diabetes Audit (ANDA)

Abstract Background Tobacco smoking and diabetes mellitus contribute significantly to the overall health burden and mortality of Australians. We aimed to assess the relationship of smoking with glycemic control, metabolic profile and complications in Australian patients living with diabetes. Methods We analysed the 2011–2017 biennial Australian National Diabetes Audit cross-sectional data. Patients were classified as current, past or never smokers. Linear (or quantile) and logistic regression models were used to assess for associations. Results Data from 15,352 patients were analysed, including 72.2% with type 2 diabetes. Current smokers comprised 13.5% of the study population. Current and past smokers had a median HbA1c that was 0.49% and 0.14% higher than never smokers, respectively, as well as higher triglyceride and lower HDL levels (p  Conclusion When compared to never smokers, current and past smokers had poorer glycemic and lipid control and higher odds of macrovascular and microvascular complications. Despite this, current smoking remains prevalent among Australians with diabetes.