Aging is a natural process that affects the entire body, including the brain. However, a new study published in the journal Diabetes Care suggests that diabetes can accelerate this process, leading to an older-appearing brain in individuals with the condition. The research, conducted by a team of Swedish researchers led by Abigail Dove, a graduate student of neurobiology at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, found that diabetes can age the brain by up to four years based on MRI scans.
According to Dove, having an older-appearing brain for one’s chronological age could indicate a deviation from the normal aging process and may serve as an early warning sign for dementia. This highlights the importance of understanding the impact of diabetes on brain health and taking proactive measures to prevent cognitive impairment and dementia.
The study analyzed MRI brain scans of over 31,000 individuals between the ages of 40 and 70 who were part of the U.K. Biobank database. By using AI technology, the researchers were able to determine the relative „brain age“ of each participant. The findings revealed that individuals in a prediabetic state had an average brain age that was half a year older than those without the condition. For individuals with full-blown diabetes, the brain age was an average of 2.3 years older, and for those with poorly controlled diabetes, the brain age was an average of four years older compared to individuals without diabetes.
On a positive note, the study also found that individuals who were physically active and did not smoke or drink heavily were less likely to have an overly aged brain. This suggests that healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise and avoiding harmful behaviors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can play a crucial role in maintaining brain health, especially for individuals with diabetes.
Dove emphasized the importance of these findings, especially given the high and growing prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the population. She hopes that the research will help raise awareness about the link between diabetes and cognitive decline, and encourage individuals with diabetes and prediabetes to adopt healthy living practices to protect brain health.
In conclusion, the study sheds light on the impact of diabetes on brain aging and underscores the potential benefits of healthy lifestyle changes in preserving cognitive function. By understanding the relationship between diabetes and brain health, individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia associated with the condition. For more information on the effects of diabetes on the brain, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers valuable resources and information.
