The death rate of men with diabetes has dropped significantly (in line with the overall decline of the death rate for all Americans) while the death rate for women with diabetes did not decline at all.

Such were the results of a new analysis of data from three large national databases between 1971 and 2000.

According to Edward W. Gregg, PhD, acting chief, Epidemiology and Statistics Branch of the Division of Diabetes Translation at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lead author of the study:

"The improvements seen in men suggest that the improvements in diabetes care are working on longevity as well. But the finding in women is concerning and means we may need to explore whether different approaches are needed to improve health outcomes for women with diabetes.

Some studies have suggested women have had less improvement in heart disease risk factors in recent years. Other studies suggest women receive less aggressive care for heart disease and risk factors.

Still other studies suggest that heart disease and diabetes may take a subtly different form in women, and that different types of treatments are needed."

Does this mean the women with diabetes should exert more effort to live longer? Could be. But generally, people with diabetes already have a higher risk of dying earlier than people without the disease.

The American College of Physicians suggests the following for women with diabetes to live as long as possible:

• Make sure you are under a doctor's care.


• Have blood sugar, cholesterol levels and blood pressure checked regularly and maintain tight control of these key markers of diabetes and heart health.


• Get regular checkups of your eyes, feet, and kidney function.


• If you're overweight, lose weight.


• If you smoke, quit.


• Eat a healthy diet (fewer carbohydrates, sweets and starches that affect blood sugar levels).


• Take your medications as directed.


• Be physically active.

Read the full report.