A new study from the Netherlands suggests that individuals who are socially isolated are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. The researchers say that promotion of more social integration may be a new approach towards the prevention of the development of diabetes, especially in the groups of high risk individuals.
BMC Public Health has reported that the lack of participation in social groups or clubs is associated with a 60% increased risk of prediabetes, 112% increase in women for the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and a 42% increased risk in men of the development of the development of type 2 diabetes.
2861 women and men between the ages of 47 to 75 were involved in this study. At the beginning of the study 1623 participants displayed normal glucose metabolism, 697 had existing type 2 diabetes, 430 were pre-diabetic, and 111 were newly diagnosed as having type 2 diabetes.
Analyzing the social circles of the participants showed that each drop in a member of the circle could be associated with 5 to 12% increased risk of developing newly diagnosed or previously being diagnosed type 2 diabetes. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes was significantly higher among men living alone with the risk of development increasing to 94%.
It was observed that men living alone were at a higher risk of developing the disease. It is suggested that this group should be recognised as high risk in healthcare, and that this group broaden their social network and involvement, by doing things to get out of the house such as, making new friends, join a discussion group, join a gym, volunteer, join a group or club, and trying team sports or activities. The researchers suggest that resolving social isolation may help to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.
“I get by with a little help from my friends” – The Beatles
