Is there a positive association between Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and obesity in diabetic patients?

The objective of this study was to determine the possible association between Toxoplasma gondii infection and obesity in Iraq. A cross-sectional study was performed on subjects with type 1 and type 2 diabetes referred to diabetes centers in Iraq. The results showed that diabetic individuals (T1DM and T2DM) with positive anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies had significantly higher probability of being obese compared to seronegative diabetic individuals (P<0.001). In addition, diabetic individuals (T1DM and T2DM) with positive T. gondii serology had significantly higher probability of being overweight compared to seronegative diabetic individuals (P<0.001). Moreover, in both obese and overweight groups, females were significantly more (P<0.05) prone to be obese and overweight than males. In conclusion, the results of the present study showed that the relationship between T. gondii infection, diabetes, and obesity is significant and may change the present views on diabetes, toxoplasmosis and obesity management.