Diabetes tied to increased disability risk

Older adults with diabetes are up to 80 per cent more likely to have a physical disability than those without the disease, according to a review of 26 studies.
The analysis by Australian scientists did not differentiate between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but the researchers note that the majority of studies included in the analysis were based on studies of older people (over 65 years), among whom Type 2 diabetes is predominant.
Disability was defined in terms of both impaired mobility, and functional disability (impaired ability to perform activities of daily living, such as bathing or eating, and instrumental activities of daily living such as using the phone, shopping, and using transport).

Researchers found that older adults with diabetes are at roughly 50 per cent - 80 per cent increased risk of physical disability, compared to people without diabetes.
"The reasons why diabetes is associated with physical disability are still unclear, although several mechanisms have been suggested," said lead researcher Dr Anna Peeters, of the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute in Melbourne.
"It's possible that the high blood glucose concentrations experienced by people with diabetes might lead to chronic muscle inflammation, eventually resulting in physical disability, and some studies have shown that diabetes is associated with rapid and worsening muscle wasting.

"The complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease, can all result in disability," Peeters said.
The analysis was published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.