Unmasking the Diabetes Risk

A groundbreaking study presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) conference in Vienna has unveiled a striking link between smoking and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D), regardless of the various subtypes of the disease.

The Four Faces of Type 2 Diabetes

Researchers have identified that type 2 diabetes isn't one-size-fits-all; instead, it can manifest in several subtypes. These include: - **SIRD** (Severe Insulin-Resistant Diabetes) - **SIDD** (Severe Insulin-Deficient Diabetes) - **MOD** (Mild Obesity-Related Diabetes) - **MARD** (Mild Age-Related Diabetes) Though each subtype presents distinct characteristics and complications, the study highlights how smoking elevates the risk across the board.

Data from Thousands Exposes Alarming Trends

Led by Ph.D. student Emmy Keysendal from Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, the research examined data from over 3,300 individuals diagnosed with T2D and nearly 3,900 control subjects. The results were undeniably alarming: ever smokers—both current and former—faced significantly higher risks for all T2D subtypes. Notably, the correlation was strongest for SIRD, where smokers were over twice as likely (2.15 times) to develop this severe form.

Heavy Smokers at Even Greater Risk

The risks escalated for those who smoked heavily. For instance, heavy smokers were found to be 2.35 times more prone to developing SIRD compared to non-smokers, alongside increased risks of 52%, 57%, and 45% for SIDD, MOD, and MARD, respectively. It was estimated that smoking was responsible for over one-third of SIRD cases.

The Impact of Smokeless Tobacco

Interestingly, the study also indicated that heavy users of snus, a popular smokeless tobacco in Scandinavia, faced heightened risks of the severe diabetes subtypes—19% for SIDD and 13% for SIRD—compared to non-users.

Genes and Smoke: A Dangerous Combination

The research also drew connections between smoking and genetic predisposition to T2D. Heavy smokers with a genetic risk or issues with insulin secretion were particularly vulnerable, showing over three times the chance of developing severe insulin resistance.

A Call to Action: Stop Smoking!

Keysendal stressed the urgency of these findings: "Smoking markedly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes across all subtypes. Our findings highlight the invaluable role of smoking cessation in T2D prevention and how understanding genetic risk can tailor support for those looking to quit."

Conclusion: Smoking's Universal Threat

This study serves as a crucial reminder of the pervasive dangers of smoking. Whether facing severe insulin resistance or the more common forms of diabetes, the risks are significant. It’s time to take action against smoking for a healthier life.