Men Face Higher Risk of Diabetes Complications Than Women: Study

New research has found that men with diabetes are at a greater risk of serious health issues compared to women with the condition. Conducted by researchers at The University of Sydney, Australia, the study revealed that men are more likely to suffer from complications such as heart disease, and problems with their legs, feet, kidneys, and eyes.

The study monitored 25,713 individuals, aged 45 and above, who had either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Over a 10-year period, these participants were regularly surveyed for major health issues related to diabetes, with their responses compared to their medical records. The results showed a significant difference in complication rates between men and women.

Key Findings

Heart Problems: Men with diabetes were found to have a 51% higher risk of developing heart issues compared to diabetic women. About 44% of men faced cardiovascular complications like stroke and heart failure, while only 31% of women did.

Kidney and Leg/Foot Conditions: Men were 55% more likely to develop kidney problems and 47% more likely to suffer from leg or foot conditions, such as ulcers and bone inflammation, compared to women.

Eye Complications: Although there was little overall difference in eye complications between men and women, men had a 14% higher risk of developing severe eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy.

Reasons Behind the Differences

The researchers suggested several possible reasons for these findings:

Risk Factors: Men in the study were more likely to have known risk factors for complications.

Lifestyle and Health Management: Men might be less likely to adopt lifestyle changes, take preventive medications, or get regular health check-ups to manage their diabetes effectively.

Implications and Recommendations

The study’s authors highlighted the need for targeted screening and prevention strategies for diabetic men. They stressed that while men are at a higher risk, both men and women face significant risks of developing complications from diabetes. Therefore, early detection and proactive management of diabetes are crucial for everyone.

This research underscores the importance of personalized healthcare approaches, especially for men who might be at greater risk of severe complications from diabetes. By understanding these risks and taking preventive measures, individuals with diabetes can better manage their health and improve their quality of life.

Q&A

Q1: What did the study conducted by The University of Sydney find about men with diabetes?

A1: The study found that men with diabetes face a higher risk of significant health complications compared to diabetic women. These complications include heart disease, and problems with their legs, feet, kidneys, and eyes.

Q2: How many individuals participated in the study, and what was their age range?

A2: The study involved 25,713 individuals aged 45 and above, all of whom had either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Also Read: Night Shifts and Diabetes Risk: Understanding the Connection

Q3: Over what period were the participants monitored, and for what purpose?

A3: The participants were monitored over a period of 10 years to track major health issues related to diabetes, with their survey responses compared to their medical records.

Q4: What were the key findings regarding cardiovascular complications in men with diabetes?

A4: The study found that men with diabetes had a 51% higher risk of developing heart problems compared to diabetic women. Specifically, 44% of men faced cardiovascular issues like stroke and heart failure, whereas only 31% of women did.

Q5: How do the risks of kidney and leg/foot conditions compare between men and women with diabetes?

A5: Men with diabetes were 55% more likely to develop kidney problems and 47% more likely to suffer from leg or foot conditions compared to women.

Q6: What did the study reveal about eye complications in men and women with diabetes?

A6: While there was little overall difference in the risk of developing eye complications between men and women, men had a 14% higher risk of developing severe eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy.

Q7: What possible explanations did the researchers suggest for the higher complication rates in men?

A7: The researchers suggested that men might be more likely to have known risk factors for complications, may be less likely to adopt lifestyle changes, take preventive medications, or get regular health check-ups to manage their diabetes effectively.

Q8: What did the study’s authors recommend based on their findings?

A8: The authors recommended targeted screening and prevention strategies for diabetic men due to their higher risk of complications. They emphasized the importance of early detection and proactive management of diabetes for both men and women.

Q9: Why is this study significant for individuals with diabetes?

A9: This study highlights the importance of personalized healthcare approaches, particularly for men who might be at greater risk of severe complications from diabetes. Understanding these risks can lead to better management and improved quality of life for those affected by diabetes.

Also Read: Eating Biscuits and Cakes with Emulsifiers Can Raise Diabetes Risk

Q10: How can men with diabetes reduce their risk of complications according to the study?

A10: Men with diabetes can reduce their risk of complications by making lifestyle changes, taking preventive medications, and getting regular health check-ups to manage their condition effectively.