Diabetes may lead to a greater risk for Alzheimer’s, dementia and memory loss


Diabetes may lead to a greater risk for Alzheimer’s, dementia and memory loss
 For people with Type 2 diabetes, there is an additional incentive for keeping the disease under management. Research shows a possible link between diabetes and cognitive decline, including increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
The scientific reason behind the link between diabetes and brain health is complex. Some scientists believe people with diabetes may also have insulin resistance or insulin deficiency that could damage brain cells enough to cause memory loss. Studies are underway to understand why 80 percent of people with Alzheimer’s disease also have some form of diabetes or disturbed glucose metabolism. However, so far, longitudinal research has not produced a consensus view regarding the link between blood glucose levels and cognitive impairment.
Meanwhile, in South Florida, medical professionals are working with diabetic patients to minimize the risk of cognitive decline through a variety of methods that include lifestyle, medical and mental-health components.

“Our message to diabetics is that the better people can control their diabetes, the more they can reduce risk of other conditions,” said Dr. Marc Agronin, director of the memory center and clinical research program at Miami Jewish Health. “Of course, that requires a lot of education and close attention.”

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