Alzheimer's Linked To Type 2 Diabetes...But Maybe That's A Good Thing

Filed in archive Research on March 16, 2006

If we know one thing about diabetes, it's that it is a disease that does not stand alone.

Borne of both physical and societal causes, it affects the entire body, with symptoms ranging from weight changes to blurred vision to exhaustion, and more. It can lead to other issues, most of them quite scary, which is why it's so important to receive proper diagnosis and care.

Perhaps not surprisingly, researchers have found yet another link between diabetes and another health crisis: Alzheimer's.

Several recent studies have looked at the involvement of metabolic, inflammatory, vascular and oxidative pathways in Alzheimer's, and since these factors are also present in type II diabetes, they might help explain the connection between the two. Of particular importance are early findings that high insulin levels may be associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease independent of type II diabetes.

Though it may not seem like it, this could actually be good news: perhaps, if the two are related, the simple lifestyle changes that can improve or prevent diabetes (more exercise and a healthier diet) may also be able to prevent or improve the symptoms of Alzheimer's dementia.

What if the power to control two of the most frightening conditions--and the power to ensure a long, happy life-- in our society is already in our hands?