AvAstiN
29th January 2010, 07:56 AM
http://www.presstv.ir/photo/20100127/khashayar20100127164303484.jpg
Tight blood sugar control increases the risk of premature death in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes particularly those taking insulin, a new study finds.
Previous studies had reported that the use of aggressive drug treatment to keep blood sugar levels near normal values can protect diabetics against serious health risks such as heart attacks and strokes.
"Conventionally, doctors have always been told to drive down (blood sugar levels) as low as possible. It will come as a major surprise to many doctors that taking people down too far appears to be quite risky," said lead researcher Craig Currie.
According to the study published in The Lancet, both patients with the highest and the lowest blood sugar levels are at an increased risk of premature death.
The study found that compared to those using a combination of oral drugs, diabetics who use insulin-based treatments were reported to be 49 percent more likely to die.
"Low and high mean HbA1c values were associated with increased all-cause mortality and cardiac events. If confirmed, diabetes guidelines might need revision to include a minimum HbA1c value," said Currie.
Scientists concluded that taking oral drugs that increase the body's sensitivity to insulin combined with diet and exercise is the safest way to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetics.
They, however, urged those on insulin not to stop taking their medication based on the findings of this study.
www.presstv.ir
Tight blood sugar control increases the risk of premature death in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes particularly those taking insulin, a new study finds.
Previous studies had reported that the use of aggressive drug treatment to keep blood sugar levels near normal values can protect diabetics against serious health risks such as heart attacks and strokes.
"Conventionally, doctors have always been told to drive down (blood sugar levels) as low as possible. It will come as a major surprise to many doctors that taking people down too far appears to be quite risky," said lead researcher Craig Currie.
According to the study published in The Lancet, both patients with the highest and the lowest blood sugar levels are at an increased risk of premature death.
The study found that compared to those using a combination of oral drugs, diabetics who use insulin-based treatments were reported to be 49 percent more likely to die.
"Low and high mean HbA1c values were associated with increased all-cause mortality and cardiac events. If confirmed, diabetes guidelines might need revision to include a minimum HbA1c value," said Currie.
Scientists concluded that taking oral drugs that increase the body's sensitivity to insulin combined with diet and exercise is the safest way to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetics.
They, however, urged those on insulin not to stop taking their medication based on the findings of this study.
www.presstv.ir