An analysis of 25 years of data has revealed that diabetes and depression go hand in hand for many people. People with Diabetes are twice as likely as non-diabetics to suffer from depression, researchers say. The June issue of Diabetes Care carries the report of this study. Dr. Patrick Lustman of Washington University School of Medicine and the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in St. Louis, Missouri headed the research.
Whether the diabetes precedes the onset of depression or vice-versa depends upon the individual, Dr. Lustman said. The relationship between depression and diabetes has been noted for years. Dr. Lustman and his colleagues reviewed 42 studies on the link in order to more firmly establish how often the two illnesses occur together.The study shows that depression is a separate illness that frequently “co-occurs” with diabetes, and some research suggests depression often precedes and helps triggers the onset of diabetes.
Depression-related behaviours such as overeating and getting little exercise are also key to the development of type 2 diabetes-the form of the disease that is closely linked to obesity. In addition, Lustman said, diabetes and depression affect some of the same hormones and neurotransmitters. Depression can promote resistance to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Insulin resistance is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
Getting proper treatment for both depression and diabetes in very important. Fighting depression can prevent diabetes and also its complications. Therefore, treatment of a mood problem not only improves the mood, but also improves blood sugar control. So cheer up. Fight depression and diabetes.
