Age is one of the leading risk factors for many chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or is unable to utilise the insulin efficiently. Both of these mechanisms can cause your blood sugar levels to spike, leading to various complications.
In this article, we will discuss and try to find out how ageing influences a person's risk of diabetes, which is the most vulnerable age group, whether or not young people remain immune, and what older adults can do to manage age-related diabetes.
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How Age Impact Diabetes Risk
When it comes to diabetes, there are two primary types: type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, stopping insulin production entirely. On the other hand, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either doesn't make enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects. While type 1 diabetes can be diagnosed at any age, type 2 diabetes develops over many years and is usually diagnosed in adults.
Therefore, ageing is a significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, Dr Mahesh D M, Consultant – Endocrinology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, told the OnlyMyHealth team. However, he added that it's not the sole culprit.
He said, “While age itself plays a role, it's the cumulative effect of several age-related changes that increase susceptibility.”
According to the doctor, this can be attributed to two different mechanisms, including:
Insulin resistance: Over time, our cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Imagine your cells as doorways for glucose (sugar) to enter and provide energy. Insulin acts as the key, but with age, the "locks" on these doorways become less sensitive, making it harder for glucose to enter and potentially leading to excess sugar circulating in the bloodstream.
Decreased insulin production: The pancreas, responsible for producing insulin, naturally exhibits a decline in function as we age. This translates to a reduced capacity to produce enough insulin to overcome potential cellular resistance and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
The Age Group Most Prone To Developing Diabetes
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), type 2 diabetes most often develops in people over the age of 45, but more and more children, teens, and young adults are also developing it.
“This trend is likely due to factors like physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary choices, and rising obesity rates among younger demographics,” Dr Mahesh suggested.
Also Read: How Diabetes Can Affect Different Parts Of The Body
How To Prevent Age-Related Diabetes
Untreated or unmonitored diabetes in older people can lead to serious complications. It can affect the vital organs and may lead to life-threatening illnesses such as Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), neuropathy, nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, and foot problems, according to Dr Mahesh.
However, the National Institute of Aging (NIA) suggests that people can take steps to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.
Some of the tips include:
- Following a balanced meal that is high in fibre and low in fat
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Doing regular physical activity
- Getting regular blood sugar monitoring
It is also important to consult your healthcare provider about your medications to make sure you understand how they work, how to take them, and what side effects may occur, as the NIA recommends.