Depression can be both a result and a risk factor for diabetes, researchers in the Archives of Internal Medicine argue.
American researchers analyzed the relationship between the two diseases among more than 65. women aged 50 to 75. For ten years, they regularly completed questionnaires designed to identify symptoms of depression every two years. Women diagnosed with diabetes additionally completed the questionnaire concerning the symptoms of the disease and treatment. In total, type 2 diabetes was found in 2 women and depression in 844 women.
According to the author of the study, Dr. An Pan of the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, after taking into account factors such as physical activity and body mass index (BMI), participants who suffered from depression were 17 percent. more likely to develop diabetes than the control group. If they additionally took antidepressants, the risk increased to 25%.
For women with diabetes, the risk of developing depression was 29%. higher, and in those taking insulin – by 53 percent. higher than in non-diabetic women.
The results of these studies further confirm the close relationship between depression and diabetes. The degree of advancement in treatment of each disease also contributes to this relationship, the researchers write, adding that the results were maintained after taking into account sociodemographic factors, diet and lifestyle.
At the same time, they note that the diagnosis of diabetes in patients often causes stress, which in turn can lead to symptoms of depression. In addition, changes in the body caused by the disease itself or its treatment can significantly affect the deterioration of well-being.
According to researchers, the best way to prevent diabetes and depression is to combine exercise, proper diet, and weight management (PAP).