Common Infections May Lead To Diabetes

Filed in archive Research on June 30, 2006

You can control your diet and exercise habits, but can you keep yourself from getting a cold? New research suggests you may want to try. Apparently, in one of the biggest diabetes studies ever conducted, researchers have found evidence supporting the theory that
common infections can trigger Type 1 diabetes in children and adults.

A pattern emerged where 'clusters' of cases were found at different geographical locations and time intervals for 10-19 year olds. There were six to seven per cent more cases of Type 1 diabetes found in 10-19 year olds in the clusters than would have been expected by chance.

This pattern, which experts call 'space-time clustering', is typical of conditions triggered by infections. Conditions caused by more constant environmental factors produce clusters of cases in one place over a much longer time period.

Still, scientists caution that it is most likely the combination of several things, rather than just the infections themselves, with lifestyle, as usual, directly mentioned.

Simon O'Neill, Director of Care and Policy at Diabetes UK, said: "We always suspected that common infections could be a trigger for Type 1 diabetes in those who are already genetically susceptible. This research provides vital evidence in supporting this link.

"The fact that the number of cases of Type 1 diabetes is rising by three per cent each year cannot be explained by genetics alone. This research reinforces the idea that common infections and environmental factors also play a part."

(Photo Source: Dr. Cass)