Women with type 2 diabetes are often diagnosed later than men, despite being at a higher risk of developing other serious health problems. A comprehensive understanding of the biological differences between sexes is crucial to improving diagnosis and treatment.
Type 2 diabetes is a growing health concern worldwide, with men being more likely to be diagnosed with the condition than women.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin.
This leads to high blood sugar levels and a range of complications if left unmanaged.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 463 million people worldwide live with type 2 diabetes.
Lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise can help manage symptoms, while medications like metformin are often prescribed to regulate blood sugar levels.
However, when women do receive a diagnosis, they are often older and have a higher body fat mass, which increases their risk of developing other serious health problems, such as heart disease.
Understanding the Biological Differences
Research suggests that biological differences between the sexes play a significant role in the delayed diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in ‘women’ . Hormonal shifts throughout a person’s lifetime can affect how the body manages blood sugar levels. For example, pregnancy and menopause have been shown to influence the development and progression of type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes during pregnancy is a powerful predictor of type 2 diabetes later in life, with some studies suggesting that women who experience gestational diabetes are up to eight times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Other hormonal shifts, such as the decline in estrogen levels during ‘menopause’ , can also contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, typically in the second or third trimester.
It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), gestational diabetes affects up to 9% of pregnancies in the United States.
Risk factors include a family history of diabetes, previous history of gestational diabetes, and being over 35 years old.
Symptoms may be mild or absent, making regular prenatal check-ups crucial for early detection and management.
The Role of Visceral Fat
Visceral fat, which is deep belly fat that sits around the organs, is particularly harmful because it releases free fatty acids that increase resistance to insulin. This means that the body’s cells stop responding to insulin as effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. Women tend to store more visceral fat than men, especially after ‘menopause’ , which increases their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Diagnostic Challenges
Current diagnostic tools may not be effective in catching the early signs of type 2 diabetes in women. The hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) blood test, a common diagnostic procedure, may not pick up diabetes risk in younger women. Additionally, men are more likely to have elevated glucose levels caught during routine blood work, while women often have impaired glucose tolerance.
The Importance of Screening
Catching type 2 diabetes early is essential in reducing some of its greatest associated harms, such as cardiovascular disease. Limiting the risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with type 2 diabetes. It is essential that clinicians take a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing the condition.
Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 30%.
A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins also plays a crucial role.
Maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of exercise and calorie control is essential.
Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption are also vital for preventing type 2 diabetes.
Studies have shown that incorporating stress-reducing activities, such as meditation or yoga, can help manage blood sugar levels.
Social Factors at Play
Social differences can also play a role in the different outcomes between women and men with type 2 diabetes. Some women may be dismissive of the condition, while others may underestimate their risk. Clinicians must be aware of these social factors and take a more nuanced approach to diagnosing and managing the condition.
A Call for Action
Historically, women have been left out of many early studies that shaped risk guidelines for diseases, including type 2 diabetes. It is essential that sex differences are taken into account in research and clinical practice. By acknowledging and addressing these differences, we can improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for women with type 2 diabetes.
