A new study from researchers at the Universities of Gothenburg and Oxford shows how important it is to manage blood sugar levels right after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
The study found that the first few years after diagnosis play a major role in determining whether someone will have a heart attack or even die 10 to 20 years later.
The researchers looked at data from a large study in the UK called the UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS). They wanted to see how blood sugar levels in the early years of diabetes affected the long-term risk of heart problems and death.
What they discovered was that blood sugar control during the first few years has a much bigger effect than people used to think.
If people managed to keep their blood sugar at healthy levels (according to treatment guidelines, with an HbA1c of 52 mmol/mol or lower) right from the start, they were 20% less likely to die 10 to 15 years later.
But if they waited 10 years to get their blood sugar under control, the risk of death dropped by only 3%. This shows that waiting to take action could have long-term consequences.
The study highlights the importance of finding and diagnosing type 2 diabetes as early as possible. The sooner it’s found, the sooner people can begin to manage it and avoid years of high blood sugar, which can damage the body over time.
This research also supports what’s known as the “glycemic legacy effect.” This term refers to how early and consistent blood sugar control can protect people from serious diabetes-related problems, including death, for up to 30 years.
That’s why global treatment guidelines now focus on helping patients reach safe blood sugar levels as soon as they are diagnosed.
In short, this study offers a clear message: the earlier someone with type 2 diabetes takes control of their blood sugar, the better their chances of avoiding serious health problems in the future. Early action really can save lives.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about Why diabetes drug metformin can help increase longevity and findings of This drug could manage type 2 diabetes for a long time.
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