Long-term use of statins can exacerbate the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes

Long-term use of statins can exacerbate the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes

Healthy diet and lifestyle changes can prevent complications

New Delhi, 10 December 2017:A recent study has indicated that those indulging in the long-term use of cholesterol-lowering drug, statin, are at 30% more at risk of developing Type-2 diabetes. It mentions that taking statin is associated with a 36% heightened risk of subsequently being diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes. Research also indicates that statins may impair the production of insulin, the hormone needed to lower the body’s levels of blood glucose.

Estimates place the number of people living with diabetes at 60 million in India, of which 95% have Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is typically brought on by poor eating habits, too much weight and too little exercise. This condition, when poorly controlled, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, blindness, and even kidney failure.

Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement, said, “In a person with Type 2 diabetes, the body does not utilize insulin properly and this condition is called as insulin resistance. The pancreas first makes extra insulin to make up for this. However, over time, it cannot make enough to keep the blood glucose at normal levels. While the exact trigger for this condition is not known, Type 2 diabetes could be a result of a combination of factors. Some may be genetically predisposed to the condition. People with a family history of obesity are also at an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and diabetes. Those who are obese have added pressure on their body’s ability to use insulin in controlling blood sugar levels. This can lead to Type 2 diabetes. The more fatty tissue a person has, the more resistant their cells become to insulin. Lifestyle factors also have a major role to play.”

The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes develop slowly, over a period of time. Some of them include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow healing of infections and wounds, and skin darkening in certain areas.

Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “A healthy diet is, more expensive than an unhealthy one. The wide availability of cheap energy dense low-nutrient food is contributing to the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes. Foods which reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes such as vegetables, fresh fruit, whole grains and unsaturated fats need to be more affordable and more widely available.”

The following preventive measures can help prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes in people.

·          Exercise more Exercise has various benefits including preventing weight gain, controlling blood sugar levels, and other conditions. A minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity every day is very beneficial.

·          Eat healthy A diet rich in whole grain, fruits, and vegetables is very good for the body. Fibrous food will ensure that you feel fuller for a longer period and prevent any cravings. Avoid processed and refined food as much as possible.

·          Limit your alcohol intake and quit smoking Too much alcohol leads to weight gain and can increase your blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Men should limit drinks to two per day and women to one per day. Smokers are twice as likely to develop diabetes as non-smokers and therefore, it is a good idea to quit this habit.

·          Understand your risk factors Doing so can help you in taking preventive measures at the earliest and avoid complications.