Why Do South Asians Experience Early and Aggressive Diabetes Risk?

New Delhi, Aug 19 (NationPress) Abdominal obesity combined with increased sedentary behavior is a significant contributor to the early and more severe risk of diabetes among South Asians, including Indians, as highlighted in a recent study published on Tuesday.

The research, featured in the BMJ, examined the characteristics of type 2 diabetes within South Asian communities, noting that they typically develop this condition at a younger average age and with a lower body mass index compared to the white population.

“South Asians encounter type 2 diabetes earlier and in a more aggressive form than many other demographics. Our review indicates that diabetes often manifests at lower body weights, escalates rapidly, and results in more complications such as kidney disease and heart attacks,” stated endocrinologist Dr. Anoop Misra, Director of the Diabetes Foundation (India), who led the research, in an interview with IANS.

The study, conducted in partnership with researchers from the US, UK, and Sri Lanka, revealed that the prevalence of diabetes is notably high and varies across the region, with a concerning rise in cases among the youth.

Environmental factors are fostering increased sedentary lifestyles, while dietary shifts towards processed foods contribute to higher body weights.

This situation is alarming as South Asians demonstrate greater abdominal obesity, ectopic fat accumulation (especially in the liver), and lower skeletal muscle mass compared to white individuals of similar age and body mass index.

“These characteristics, along with rapid beta cell dysfunction, result in earlier onset and accelerated glycemia progression, leading to greater aggregated hyperglycemia compared to white individuals, which contributes to increased rates of retinopathy, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease,” the study stated, based on an analysis of randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses.

Additionally, the findings indicated that South Asians exhibit elevated postprandial glucose levels and a quicker transition from prediabetes to diabetes. Lifestyle factors, including a high consumption of refined carbohydrates and low physical activity, further heighten the risk.

“Taking preventative measures through a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight management is essential and should be initiated early,” emphasized Misra, a former Professor at the Department of Medicine, AIIMS, in his conversation with IANS.

He also pointed out that access to affordable healthcare remains a significant obstacle, often causing delayed diagnoses due to limited awareness and healthcare access, particularly in underserved populations.

Consequently, complications such as cardiovascular disease and nephropathy are more prevalent and severe.

The researchers advocated for prioritizing affordable and innovative solutions, enhancing healthcare systems, and implementing broad preventive measures in the region.