Daijiworld Media Network - Minnesota

Minnesota, Mar 21: People with Type 1 Diabetes may face a significantly higher risk of developing Dementia, according to a new study published in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

The research also found that Type 2 Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of dementia, although the link appears to be stronger in those with type 1 diabetes. Researchers clarified that the findings show an association and do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

The study, led by Jennifer Weuve of Boston University, analysed data from 283,772 individuals with an average age of 64. Among them, 5,442 had type 1 diabetes and 51,511 had type 2 diabetes. Participants were followed for an average of 2.4 years.

During the study period, 2,348 people developed dementia. This included 2.6 per cent of those with type 1 diabetes, 1.8 per cent with type 2 diabetes, and 0.6 per cent among individuals without diabetes.

After adjusting for factors such as age and education, researchers found that people with type 1 diabetes were nearly three times more likely to develop dementia compared to those without diabetes. Those with type 2 diabetes had about twice the risk.

The study further estimated that around 65 per cent of dementia cases among people with type 1 diabetes could be attributed to the condition.

Researchers noted that while type 1 diabetes accounts for only about 5 per cent of all diabetes cases, the findings are particularly significant as life expectancy improves and more individuals with the condition live into older age.

However, the study acknowledged limitations, including reliance on electronic health records and survey data, which may not capture all diagnoses.

Experts emphasised the need for further research to better understand the link and explore ways to prevent or delay dementia among people living with diabetes.