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Systematic Review Open Access

Association Between Antibiotic Exposure and Type 2 Diabetes Risk: A Meta-Analysis

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Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences Volume 04 (2025), Version 12 October 23, 2025 pp. 1219 - 1224
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Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality globally and more than 500 million people are already affected. It has been estimated that almost 800 million may be living with T2DM by 2045. This review evaluated the association between antibiotic exposure and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A systematic search of PubMed, Dimensions, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect was conducted on 5th June, 2025 and four (4) eligible studies were identified, that are all cohort studies. Data synthesis was performed using RevMan version 5.4.1, employing a fixed-effects model to pool hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence int ervals (CI). Heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed using I² statistics, Chi² tests, and funnel plots. The pooled HR identified was 1.31 (95% CI: 1.12–1.53), corresponding to a 31% increase in diabetes risk among individuals with longer antibiotic exposure compared to those unexposed. However, the overall effect was statistically significant (Z = 3.44, P < 0.0001). Moreover, substantial heterogeneity was observed across the four (4) studies (Chi² = 24.94, df = 3, P < 0.0001; I² = 88%). Ultimately, extended antibiotic duration and frequent/recurrent courses are each associated with increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Clinicians and patients should be aware of these potential long-term effects.

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