AGING populations, increasing obesity, and a sedentary way of life contribute to the annual increase in type 2 diabetes worldwide.
A new study shows that remission is possible for many through lifestyle changes. The results may help doctors effectively support those who currently have or are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
DiabetesTrusted Source is a major global health concern, affecting mortality rates and the quality of life of those with the condition and their families.
While numerous treatment options exist to control the disease, many people go beyond managing their illness to achieve remission.
A new study using data from Scotland finds that a significant number of people with a type 2 diabetes diagnosis are in remission. The researchers also sought to define the factors that drive remission.
The results appear in the open-access journal PLOS Medicine. In 2019, over 422 millionTrusted Source people worldwide had received a diagnosis of diabetes.
Experts estimate that by 2045, 700 millionTrusted Source individuals will have the condition. An aging population, growing obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle all contribute to this projected increaseTrusted Source.
While many people manage or control their diabetes through glucose-lowering therapyTrusted Source, the broad definition of remission of type 2 diabetes is achieving normal glycemic measures without using glucose-targeted medications.
Some people have achieved remission through bariatric surgeriesTrusted Source, including gastric bypass and gastric banding.
Others achieved remission following participation in research trialsTrusted Source that tested low calorieTrusted Sourcediets followed by structured weight loss management programs.
However, this most recent study suggests that many people achieve remission without surgery and without participating in trials.
Using the Scottish Care Information – Diabetes Collaboration (SCI-DC) registry, researchers used data from more than 162,000 individuals who were older than 30 years, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and alive on December 31, 2019.
The study found that 7,710 of the study participants, or around 5%, were in remission from type 2 diabetes.
