Research on diabetes and its complications. Covers glucose prediction, nerve pain, weight-loss drugs, insulin access, and diabetes management.
The prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in the US has increased significantly over the past two decades, with a 34% rise from 1988-1994 to 2005-2008. The estimated numbers of persons with DKD have also increased, from 3.9 million in 1988-1994 to 6.9 million in 2005-2008.
A meta-analysis of 32,752 participants found that intensive-dose statin therapy was associated with a higher incidence of new-onset diabetes compared to moderate-dose therapy. In contrast, intensive statin therapy reduced the number of major cardiovascular events.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered a genetic factor that regulates obesity-induced inflammation contributing to chronic health problems. By controlling levels of Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) in macrophages, they may develop a novel treatment for obesity and its complications such as diabetes and heart disease.
The ABCD2 score, used to identify people at risk of stroke after transient ischemic attack, has low sensitivity and limited clinical application. The study found that patients with an ABCD2 score above five had only a low rate of subsequent strokes.
A low-cost healthy lifestyle program, including self-weighing weekly or monthly, has been shown to prevent excessive weight gain in pregnant women with pre-existing overweight. Regular monitoring of weight gain and simple health messages can reduce pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes and birth complications.
Researchers found that HbA1C test is not predictive of outcomes in diabetes patients with kidney disease on dialysis. In contrast, the glycated albumin or GA assay was a strong predictor of patient survival and hospitalizations.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in detecting diabetes and cardiovascular disease through advanced lipid genetics. Dr. Joanne Curran discovered that dihydroceramide (dhCer) is a reliable early indicator of diabetes risk, while Dr. Sara Willems found a link between genetic variants and atherosclerosis.
A new University of Illinois study published in the Journal of Physiology found that a high-fat diet during pregnancy programs a woman's baby for future diabetes. Exposure to such a diet modifies gene expression in the livers of offspring, increasing the likelihood of early insulin resistance and diabetes.
A Johns Hopkins team has identified a newly discovered protein called Iduna that protects the brain against stroke and neurologic disorders. The protein works by interrupting a cascade of molecular events that result in cell death, and its presence increases three- to four-fold in preconditioned mouse brain tissue.
Women who gained 2-3 BMI units between the first and second pregnancy were more likely to develop GDM in the second pregnancy. Conversely, women who lost over 6 pounds between pregnancies reduced their risk of developing GDM by approximately 50%. The association was strongest in women who were overweight or obese in their first pregnancy.
A common CT scan test could help identify individuals with diabetes at high risk of early death, who may benefit from targeted medical care and interventions. Researchers found that those with higher levels of calcified plaque buildup in their blood vessels were more than six times more likely to die prematurely.
A clinical trial found that Metagenics' UltraMeal PLUS 360° is effective in lowering cardiovascular risk factors and resolving metabolic syndrome. The study showed a 40% increase in resolving metabolic syndrome compared to a Mediterranean-style diet alone.
A cluster randomized trial found that lifestyle interventions, including physical activity and dietary counselling, reduced the risk of large for gestational age newborns by 44% in pregnant women at high risk. However, the study did not show a significant reduction in the risk of gestational diabetes.
A four-year school intervention in Michigan improved middle school students' cholesterol levels and resting heart rates, reducing obesity-related health risks. The program goals included eating more fruits and vegetables, getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity, and spending less time in front of screens.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that Canadian Inuit have similar diabetes levels to the general population, contrary to previous assumptions. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,500 participants and found that obesity rates were high among Inuit, with 28% being overweight and 35% obese.
TZDs act on PPARγ, enhancing sodium transport and water reabsorption, but also have direct effects on kidney channels, explains a recent Cell Metabolism study. The findings may lead to combination therapy and selective PPARγ modulators to prevent massive fluid retention.
The Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine will establish an extension campus in Columbus to address the shortage of primary care physicians and the growing diabetes epidemic. The new campus will enroll 50 new students annually, with plans to graduate 200 students by 2019.
The University of Louisville School of Nursing has established a Kentucky Racing Health Services Center (KRHSC) to provide comprehensive health care services to track workers. KRHSC, led by Whitney Nash, serves about 2,500 patients annually, offering acute and chronic care as well as preventive services.
A UBC study found that a strong relationship with a primary healthcare provider is key to managing chronic conditions. Patients who felt connected to their provider reported better health outcomes and self-management skills.
A collaborative effort aims to tackle health disparities in Appalachia through research collaborations, community engagement, and translational science. The Appalachian Translational Research Network (ATRN) will focus on addressing obesity, smoking, and diabetes to improve health outcomes in the region.
Researchers at TGen found that PVT1 expression levels increased up to 5-fold in response to hyperglycemia, leading to excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix in glomeruli. Knocking down PVT1 reduced ECM protein levels, suggesting a potential molecular mechanism for diabetic nephropathy.
Researchers found obese patients with metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure are at substantial risk for cardiac, pulmonary, and neurologic complications. The study provides a simple way to identify patients who may face higher risks following surgery.
A Loma Linda University study found that vegetarians experience a 36 percent lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome than non-vegetarians. The condition is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
A study of 26,643 U.S. adults found that combining creatinine, cystatin C, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio improved prediction of end-stage renal disease and all-cause death. The researchers identified a 3-fold risk of death and 4-fold risk of end-stage renal disease associated with the combined markers.
The American Academy of Neurology has issued a new guideline on the most effective treatments for diabetic nerve pain. Pregabalin was found to be an effective treatment in improving quality of life, while several other treatments including gabapentin, valproate, antidepressants and opioids should also be considered.
Scientists will present their work on reversing the obesity epidemic by understanding its molecular underpinnings. The conference will feature talks on emerging research, treatment options, and the impact of obesity on various bodily systems.
A study found that diabetes is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer in men, but a higher risk of other cancers and mortality in both men and women. Diabetes was linked to increased risks for colon, rectal, and liver cancers in men and women.
Middle-aged adults with diabetes are more likely to develop age-related conditions like cognitive impairment, incontinence, and vision problems. The study found that those with diabetes developed these conditions nearly double the rate of those without diabetes.
Research suggests that nearly half of atrial fibrillation cases can be avoided by maintaining a normal blood pressure and healthy body weight, without smoking. The study found that high blood pressure was the strongest predictor of atrial fibrillation, accounting for over one-fifth of all cases.
Scientists have established a strong link between nicotine and diabetes complications, finding that concentrations of nicotine similar to those found in smoker's blood raise levels of HbA1c by up to 34%. This discovery may encourage patients with diabetes to quit smoking and has implications for the use of nicotine-replacement therapy.
Researchers found that mice with short telomeres developed higher blood sugar levels and secreted less insulin, mimicking early stages of human diabetes. The study suggests that shorter telomeres may predispose people to age-related diabetes, paving the way for potential biomarkers.
A University of Missouri researcher has discovered a plant oil called sterculic oil that may help reduce belly fat and insulin resistance in humans. The oil contains unique fatty acids that suppress an enzyme associated with insulin resistance, improving metabolic profiles and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Researchers at University of Manchester discover new treatments for congenital hyperinsulinism by correcting gene defects in insulin-producing cells. The breakthrough has the potential to reverse cellular defects and pave way for new drugs, offering real hope for devastating condition.
A new self-monitoring blood glucose sensor developed by Arizona State University engineers and clinicians enables patients to draw tear fluid from their eyes to get a glucose-level test sample. The device aims to make blood glucose testing easier, more comfortable and potentially better control diabetes.
A four-year study aims to develop drugs that inhibit the degradation of protective metabolites in the kidneys, which are damaged by diabetes. Researchers hope these inhibitors could halt the progression of diabetic nephropathy and slow the rise of end-stage renal disease.
A research team discovered molecules that act as 'shift workers' to maintain the daily rhythm of fat metabolism in the liver. The findings suggest that disruption of this rhythm can lead to fatty liver and metabolic disorders.
A new research center at MSU will study air pollutants' impact on cardiometabolic syndrome, a collection of risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The team aims to understand how air pollution promotes the development of these conditions, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Young adults with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, or epilepsy, are less likely to graduate high school and secure employment. They also experience higher rates of public assistance and disability insurance.
Millions of people worldwide may be at risk of early death from diabetes due to poor diagnosis and ineffective treatment. In the US, nearly 90% of adult diabetics have blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels not treated effectively.
Researchers identified a genetic switch, estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERR gamma), that converts fast twitch fibers into slow twitch fibers with increased blood supply. This discovery offers potential therapeutic avenues for treating critical limb ischemia and other cardiovascular diseases.
A NYU nursing-dental research team will assess the feasibility of using gingival crevicular blood to gauge hemoglobin A1C levels as a means of diagnosing diabetes and identifying pre-diabetes. The study aims to determine if there is a correlation between A1C finger-stick and oral blood samples.
A study by the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital found that the hemoglobin A1c test is not as reliable for diagnosing diabetes in children as it is for adults, potentially leading to missed cases. The authors suggest using a fasting plasma glucose test instead.
Researchers found that statin drugs can prevent free radicals from killing nerves important to maintaining vision in people with diabetes. The study suggests that oral treatment with atorvastatin can restore proper levels of nerve growth factor and preserve neurons in the retina.
Two studies investigate the role of bone marrow stem cells in diabetic therapy and islet cell regeneration, offering new therapeutic possibilities. Researchers also focus on improving pancreatic islet culture and preservation techniques to prolong the survival and functionality of islet cells in vitro.
A 22-year study found no cases of diabetes and only one non-lethal case of cancer in individuals with Laron syndrome, a growth-stunting mutation. In contrast, relatives without such mutations had higher rates of diabetes and cancer. The study suggests that blocking growth hormone activity may be protective against these diseases.
A new study has found that Native Hawaiians are at a higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke at a younger age compared to other ethnicities. The study, which analyzed data from 573 people hospitalized for intracerebral hemorrhage, also showed that more Native Hawaiians had diabetes, with 35% vs 21% in other racial groups.
A study identified blood glucose levels that predict the 10-year risk of retinopathy. Individuals with higher fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels were more likely to develop eye-related complications.
A study found that leptin resistance, common in diabetes, helps prevent the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and acute lung injury (ALI). Leptin resistance reduces the formation of inflexible tissue that develops in ALI and ARDS.
The study found significant variations in quality and safety across diabetes social networks, with room for improvement. Researchers recommend increasing moderation, making credentials of moderators visible, and improving privacy policies to protect patients' health information.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified genetic variations in a hormone involved in insulin secretion that occur more frequently in some human populations. These variants are associated with higher fasting levels of blood glucose and may help scientists understand the subtle changes in human metabolism, en...
A new study suggests that consuming inorganic nitrate from spinach can improve mitochondrial efficiency, leading to reduced oxygen consumption while exercising. This increase in efficiency may contribute to the known health benefits of fruits and vegetables, particularly leafy greens like spinach.
Joslin Diabetes Center researchers discovered that plasma kallikrein interferes with brain clotting, leading to increased bleeding during strokes. Normalizing blood glucose levels may block this effect and reduce brain hemorrhage.
A study by UTMB researchers reveals a significant increase in hypertension prevalence among older Mexican-Americans, with higher rates among those with diabetes and obesity. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these factors and improve hypertension management in this growing population.
Research found that a specific microRNA (miR-503) can impair the ability of endothelial cells to form new blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of amputation in diabetic patients. Inhibiting this miRNA improved blood vessel formation.
A research team led by Makoto Tominaga found that TRPM2, a body temperature sensor, plays a crucial role in regulating insulin secretion. In TRPM2-deficient mice, impaired insulin secretion and elevated blood glucose levels were observed.
A study of 41 randomized controlled trials found disease-management programs reduce glycated hemoglobin levels in diabetic patients. Frequent doctor visits are associated with greater effectiveness.
A new study reveals that Mexican immigrants who are more integrated into US culture appear less healthy and more likely to require healthcare resources. Men tend to report better health than women, but their health declines faster as they adapt to the US.
A Canadian study found that 22% of families with a child diagnosed with diabetes were food insecure, leading to poorer diabetes control and higher hospitalization rates. The researchers call for improved financial support and increased awareness among healthcare professionals to address this issue.
A new report commissioned by The National Academy on an Aging Society finds that older adults with diabetes have a lower life expectancy than those without the disease. The analysis, based on data from the Health and Retirement Study, reveals a significant increase in diabetes prevalence among boomers and seniors.
Researchers at UC Davis Health System found significantly reduced vitamin D levels in patients with metabolic syndrome living in Northern California. The study suggests that supplementation with vitamin D may reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease, contradicting previous assumptions about adequate sun exposure in sunny latitudes.