Type 2 Diabetes & Learning Disabilities: Increased Mortality Risk
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Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Accelerated Progression in Individuals with Learning Disabilities
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UK individuals with learning disabilities progress faster to severe type 2 diabetes (T2D), placing them at a greater risk of dying from the condition compared with individuals without a learning disability, according to findings published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Control. The study authors noted that this progression occurs despite having better overall blood glucose and similar risks of vascular complications.1,2
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Learning Disabilities’ Relation to Increased Risk of T2D
Learning disabilities are moderately common, impacting about 5% of school-aged children globally. In the UK, nearly 1.5 million individuals have a learning disability, including about 950,000 adults with conditions including down syndrome and cerebral palsy. This population faces a higher risk of chronic illnesses, such as T2D, due to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors. Additionally, individuals with learning disabilities have a significantly lower life expectancy, passing about 20 years sooner than those without a learning disability.1,3
The study authors noted that managing T2D in individuals with learning disabilities coudl present challenges for patients and health care providers, as self-managing the condition requires continuous monitoring of diet, blood sugar levels, exercise, and medication, which is sometimes challenging to handle. Additionally, cognitive impairment can delay dialog with caregivers and health care providers, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.1,2
Understanding How a Learning disability Can Impact Diabetes Care
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