2023-09-09 12:00:00
Numerous studies have shown the existence of a link between depression and type 2 diabetes. For example, it has been shown that diabetics are twice as likely to suffer from depression than others or even than people with diabetes. Depressives have an increased risk of developing the metabolic disorder. However, it was unclear whether depression was the cause or a consequence of type 2 diabetes.
Researchers from the University of Surrey attempted to settle the question and found that mental health disorder plays a direct role in the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.
Depression increases the risk of type 2 diabetes
The team led by Professor Inga Prokopenko analyzed genetic as well as medical data from hundreds of thousands of individuals in the United Kingdom and Finland. The results show, for the first time, that depression can directly lead to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes with higher body weight, “partly, but not entirely, explaining the effects of depression on type 2 diabetes”specify the scientists in a communiqué common from their establishment and the Diabetes UK association published on September 7, 2023.
Additionally, 7 genetic variations that contribute to both diseases have been identified. The latter play a role in insulin secretion or inflammation of the brain, pancreas or adipose tissue, modifications of these biological processes. Which might explain how depression increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, according to researchers.
Depression and diabetes: better monitoring for patients
“Our finding highlights depression as a contributing cause of type 2 diabetes and might help improve prevention efforts. The findings are important both for people living with the disease and for healthcare professionals, who should consider implementing additional testing to help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes in people with depression. “explains Professor Inga Prokopenko, head of the study.
According to researchers, implementing this type of preventive approach might help reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in individuals with depression. In addition, this work highlights the importance of offering appropriate monitoring and support to people suffering from these two conditions.
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