A new study from the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University has revealed a concerning connection between type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis—a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of painful and life-limiting fractures.
According to the research, more than one in four people with type 2 diabetes also have osteoporosis, making it a significant but often overlooked health concern for this population.
The study reviewed 21 different research papers published before July 2022, involving data from over 11,600 people with type 2 diabetes. The findings showed that 27.67%—or roughly one in four—of these individuals had osteoporosis. This high rate points to a strong need for better prevention and treatment strategies focused on bone health in people living with diabetes.
The research also found that the risk of osteoporosis increases with age. For people with diabetes who were 60 years old or younger, 19.17% had osteoporosis. But among those over the age of 60, the number jumped to nearly 30%. This highlights the growing risk as diabetic patients age.
Women with diabetes were more likely to develop osteoporosis than men, a trend seen in the general population as well. Hormonal changes after menopause often contribute to bone loss in women, and this risk appears to be even greater when diabetes is also present.
The study also uncovered that obesity plays a role. Among people with both diabetes and obesity, 32.02% had osteoporosis, compared to 28.36% of those with diabetes but without obesity.
This may seem surprising, as body weight can sometimes help protect bones by putting more load on them. However, obesity in people with diabetes is often linked to chronic inflammation and poor nutrient absorption, which may harm bone health.
Although the analysis included mostly high-quality studies, the researchers noted that osteoporosis among people with type 2 diabetes is a global problem that demands more attention.
They emphasized that bone health should be part of routine diabetes care, especially since many people with diabetes are already managing other complications like heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.
Osteoporosis can lead to serious fractures, particularly in the hips and spine. For older adults, these fractures can lead to long recovery periods, reduced independence, and in some cases, life-threatening complications.
Thankfully, there are ways to help prevent osteoporosis. Eating a balanced diet that includes enough calcium and vitamin D is essential for building and maintaining strong bones. Regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking or strength training, also helps keep bones healthy.
Bone density tests can detect early signs of osteoporosis, so doctors may recommend regular screenings for people with diabetes, especially those at higher risk.
This study, led by researcher Xueying Liu and published in BMC Endocrine Disorders, adds to the growing body of evidence showing how diabetes affects more than just blood sugar. It highlights the need to look at the bigger picture when caring for people with type 2 diabetes.
By including bone health in diabetes care plans, doctors can help reduce the risk of fractures and improve the quality of life for their patients. This simple shift in care could have a lasting impact, especially as the number of people living with type 2 diabetes continues to rise around the world.
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