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May 13, 2005
Depression and Diabetes
A new study has found a correlation between the risk of developing diabetes and a history of depression [source: Reuters]. Patients with newly diagnosed diabetes were found to be more likely to have a history of depression than were those without diabetes (4.9 percent vs. 3.8 percent, respectively).
However, what has not been determined is whether depression predisposes individuals to diabetes.
The researchers explained,
Diabetes and depression often co-exist, and "depression is associated with worse outcomes in people with diabetes.".However, whether diabetes leads to depression or an individual's mental health increases diabetes risk is presently indeterminate. Nevertheless, statements by the investigators imply such a relationship exists:
"Our results are very important because the typical onset of depression occurs between 20 and 30 years of age," Dr. Jeffrey A. Johnson told Reuters Health. "These are the people who are at highest risk of developing depression and, based on our study results, they seem to have the highest risk of developing type 2 diabetes."This does make sense when depression is considered in the context of other changes that often co-exist, such as weight gain. In addition, many of the medications used to treat depression cause weight gain and sedation, and may contribute to the development of diabetes.
Posted by Diabetologica at May 13, 2005 12:07 PM