posted 10/07/02
Genetics, fetal origins, lifestyle and stress may all be risk
factors of Type 2 diabetes
Genetics, fetal history, lifestyle and stress may
all favor the occurrence of Type 2 diabetes, according to experts at a recent
meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. 350 international experts including
representatives of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World
Health Organization (WHO) met on 6-7 July under the banner of Diabetes in Asia
2002 to discuss the causes that could be at the origin of Type 2 diabetes. The
subsequent consensus could help develop a primary prevention strategy to defuse
the escalating incidence of this form of diabetes worldwide.
Type 2 diabetes is rising dramatically, with at
least 170 million people with diabetes worldwide and a predicted increase to 300
million by 2025. More and more children and adolescents are developing Type 2
diabetes, a form of diabetes that used to be found mostly in adults. Up until
now, scientists mainly focused on obesity due to lifestyle changes as being a
cause of Type 2 diabetes, however, new studies reveal that genetics, fetal
history and, possibly, stress may also play a role in the development of the
condition.
Genetics was identified as a significant factor
that causes diabetes. There is firm evidence from genetic studies that the
association of some genes is at the root of causing Type 2 diabetes.
Low birth weight was recognized as another risk
factor for Type 2 diabetes. Epidemiological studies have reported a higher
incidence of Type 2 diabetes in people who had a low birth weight. Animal
studies confirm that poor nourishment of the fetus increases the risk of
metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, postnatal over-nutrition
may aggravate the syndrome.
Obesity has long been associated with diabetes,
Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Lifestyle
changes, including bad eating habits and physical inactivity all contribute to
obesity.
Finally, compelling animal evidence and
mechanistic studies suggest a relationship between stress and insulin resistance
leading to Type 2 diabetes.
"This consensus is likely to highlight the urgent need for the primary prevention of Type 2 diabetes." Said Professor Sir George Alberti, President of the IDF. "We hope that the consensus will facilitate the introduction of programs to increase awareness and promote education at all levels. There is urgent need for government action to promote healthy lifestyles now."
Source: Diabetes In Control Dot Com.