People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of contracting respiratory, urinary tract and skin infections than people without diabetesStudies have historically examined the relationship between diabetes and infections, but most of these studies were retrospective (analyzing past data). The new study looked forward, prospectively comparing about 7,500 diabetic patients with nearly 19,000 selected control patients to examine the link between diabetes and infections. The researchers found that the odds were significantly higher that both type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients would develop infections of the respiratory tract, skin and mucous membranes and urinary tract. In fact, patients with type 1 diabetes were twice as likely to develop a urinary tract infection as non-diabetics. Diabetics' risk for recurring infection was also higher.
Diabetes patients have an increased risk of common infections. Whenever a diabetic is treated, either in-patient or out-patient, this risk should be addressed by the treating physician. It may behoove the insurance companies to consider a secondary team to oversee the maintenance of blood glucose control throughout the stay of a diabetic patient. When it comes to diabetes and infection - the effort in preventing an infection is much easier than fighting one off. Ask yourself how much time does it take to get a flu shot, drink plenty of water, and lead a healthy lifestyle? Call your doctor, grab a Poland Spring, and wash your hands. You'll be glad you did!
