Type 2 diabetes may lead to cognitive problems in seniors
Older patients who live with adult-onset diabetes can help control their blood sugar if they buy Canadian Actos.
Older patients who live with adult-onset diabetes can help control their blood sugar if they buy Canadian Actos. Chronically high glucose levels can have a wide range of negative effects on different parts of the body, including the kidneys and eyes. Now, a new study suggests that diabetes can also affect one's cognitive function.
Based on previous research, which indicated that the brains of older diabetics may be negatively affected by their disease, scientists from the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center conducted a study that included 147 participants with an average age of 65 years: 71 had type 2 diabetes, while the rest served as controls. The team used several measurements - such as cognitive tests, MRI brain scans and screens for levels of glucose and different markers for inflammation - to assess the link between diabetes and cognitive impairment.
The results showed that higher levels of blood sugar were associated with increases in two molecules linked to inflammation: sVCAM and sICAM. Consequently, a greater abundance of these molecules was linked to blood vessel constriction and atrophied brain tissue.
"If these markers can be identified before the brain is damaged, we can take steps to try and intervene," said researcher Vera Novak, M.D., Ph.D.
Furthermore, this study highlights the need for greater care and prevention of diabetes, the researchers said.
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