Diabetes is not the same for men and women: Why females may be more vulnerable

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine reveals that type 2 diabetes does not uniformly impact men and women in the same way. Researchers analyzed nearly 29,000 individuals newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the UK between 2010 and 2020. One key finding was the connection between type 2 diabetes and mental health. Individuals affected by both diabetes and mental health conditions had a higher risk of premature death, with men experiencing this outcome about nine years earlier than women.

Despite this, Dr Sukirti Misra, Consultant Endocrinologist, KIMS Hospital, Thane, clarifies that diabetes can affect both sexes differently. Women with diabetes might face a greater risk of cardiovascular complications, while men could encounter sexual and reproductive issues. However, Dr Misra emphasizes that the severity of diabetes depends more on duration, glucose control, and associated conditions than on sex.

Cardiovascular risk assessment is crucial for diabetes care, especially for women, but men should also remain vigilant about their heart health. Rather than determining which sex needs more caution, the focus should be on understanding that diabetes demands long-term attention. Women may require extra vigilance regarding cardiovascular risks due to a potentially higher relative risk, while men should also discuss any concerns about sexual and reproductive health with their doctors.

To mitigate risks associated with diabetes, effective management goes beyond monitoring blood sugar levels. It involves addressing cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, abstaining from tobacco, and keeping a healthy weight. Regular monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney health, and other complications is essential for everyone with diabetes.