Type 2 Diabetes in the Elderly: Challenges in a Unique Patient Population

Apolipoprotein E Gene Variation in Pakistani Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes with and without Cardiovascular Complications

Background: Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphism has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major public health concern worldwide, including in Pakistan. Cardiovascular problems linked with T2DM have a significant impact on individuals and society. The goal of this study is to investigate the relationship between Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotypes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular complications such as ischemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke. Methods: This study was carried out on 260 subjects divided into controls and diabetics. The diabetics were further divided into four subgroups such as D1: diabetics without cardiovascular issues, D2: diabetics with heart disease, D3: diabetics with stroke, and D4: diabetics with both heart disease and stroke. Anthropometric parameters (age, BMI) and risk factors (smoking, diabetes duration, hypertension) were assessed in all groups. Serum levels of TC, TG, LDL, HDL, VLDL, creatinine, BSF, and HbA1c were also measured. Apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism was determined using PCR-RFLP. Results: Hypertension, BMI, and dyslipidemia are defined as elevated levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL, and decreased levels of HDL. Uncontrolled hyperglycemia (elevated fasting blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin) in T2DM was linked to vascular complications such as IHD and stroke. Hypertension was prevalent in 79.3% of the population. Stage 2 hypertension was more prevalent in all age groups. It was also noted that common genotypes in the Pakistani population are 3/3, 4/4, 2/3, and 3/4. The frequency of genotypes 3/4 and 2/3 is highest in diabetics with stroke. Genotype 3/3 is present frequently in diabetics with IHD/stroke and patients with both these complications. However, genotype 4/4 is most frequently found in diabetics with IHD. Conclusions: It is concluded that BMI, hypertension, hyperglycemia, atherosclerosis, and dyslipidemia are linked with cardiovascular complications of type 2 diabetes. Apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism is associated with cardiovascular disease in patients with diabetes by affecting the lipid profile.

Safety and effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors in a UK population with type 2 diabetes and aged over 70 years: an instrumental variable approach

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Older adults are under-represented in trials, meaning the benefits and risks of glucose-lowering agents in this age group are unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in people with type 2 diabetes aged over 70 years using causal analysis.

METHODS

Hospital-linked UK primary care data (Clinical Practice Research Datalink, 2013-2020) were used to compare adverse events and effectiveness in individuals initiating SGLT2i compared with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i). Analysis was age-stratified: <70 years (SGLT2i n=66,810, DPP4i n=76,172), ≥70 years (SGLT2i n=10,419, DPP4i n=33,434). Outcomes were assessed using the instrumental variable causal inference method and prescriber preference as the instrument.

RESULTS

Risk of diabetic ketoacidosis was increased with SGLT2i in those aged ≥70 (incidence rate ratio compared with DPP4i: 3.82 [95% CI 1.12, 13.03]), but not in those aged <70 (1.12 [0.41, 3.04]). However, incidence rates with SGLT2i in those ≥70 was low (29.6 [29.5, 29.7]) per 10,000 person-years. SGLT2i were associated with similarly increased risk of genital infection in both age groups (incidence rate ratio in those <70: 2.27 [2.03, 2.53]; ≥70: 2.16 [1.77, 2.63]). There was no evidence of an increased risk of volume depletion, poor micturition control, urinary frequency, falls or amputation with SGLT2i in either age group. In those ≥70, HbA1c reduction was similar between SGLT2i and DPP4i (-0.3 mmol/mol [-1.6, 1.1], -0.02% [0.1, 0.1]), but in those <70, SGLT2i were more effective (-4 mmol/mol [4.8, -3.1], -0.4% [-0.4, -0.3]).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Causal analysis suggests SGLT2i are effective in adults aged ≥70 years, but increase risk for genital infections and diabetic ketoacidosis. Our study extends RCT evidence to older adults with type 2 diabetes.

Advancing type 2 diabetes therapy with iGlarLixi in older people: Pooled analysis of four randomized controlled trials

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of iGlarLixi in older people (≥65 years) with type 2 diabetes (T2D) advancing or switching from oral agents, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), or basal insulin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of participants aged <65 years and ≥65 years from four LixiLan trials (LixiLan-O, LixiLan-G, LixiLan-L, SoliMix) were evaluated over 26 or 30 weeks.

RESULTS

Participants aged <65/≥65 years (n = 1039/n = 497) had a mean baseline body mass index of 31.4 and 30.7 kg/m2 and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentration of 66 mmol/mol (8.2%) and 65 mmol/mol (8.1%), respectively. Least squares mean HbA1c change from baseline to end of treatment (EOT) was -14.32 mmol/mol (-1.31%) (95% confidence interval [CI] -14.97, -13.77 [-1.37%, -1.26%]) for those aged <65 years and -13.66 mmol/mol (-1.25%) (95% CI -14.54, -12.79 [-1.33%, -1.17%]) for those aged ≥65 years. At EOT, achievement of HbA1c targets was similar between the group aged <65 years and the group aged ≥65 years: <53 mmol/mol (<7%) (59.0% and 56.5%, respectively), <59 mmol/mol (<7.5%) (75.5% and 73.0%, respectively) and <64 mmol/mol (<8%) (83.8% and 84.1%, respectively). The incidence and event rate of American Diabetes Association Level 1 hypoglycaemia during the studies were also comparable between the two groups: 26.7% and 28.2% and 1.7 and 2.1 events per patient-year for the group aged <65 years and the group aged ≥65 years, respectively. A clinically relevant reduction in HbA1c (>1% from baseline for HbA1c ≥64 mmol/mol [≥8%] or ≥0.5% from baseline for HbA1c <64 mmol/mol [<8%]) without hypoglycaemia was attained by 50.0% and 47.6% of participants aged <65 years and ≥65 years, respectively. Adverse events were similar between the two age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

iGlarLixi is a simple, well-tolerated, once-daily alternative for treatment advancement in older people with T2D that provides significant improvements in glycaemic control without increasing hypoglycaemia risk, thus reducing the treatment burden.

Management of Glucose-Lowering Therapy in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Challenges and Opportunities

The population of older adults (≥65 years) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is diverse, encompassing individuals with varying functional capabilities, living arrangements, concomitant medical conditions, and life expectancies. Hence, their categorization into different patient profiles (ie, good health, intermediate health, poor health) may aid in clinical decision-making when establishing glycemic goals and pharmacological treatment strategies. Further granularity in assessing each patient profile through interdisciplinary collaboration may also add precision to therapeutic and monitoring decisions. In this review, we discuss with a multidisciplinary approach how to deliver the best benefit from advanced diabetes therapies and technologies to older adults with T2DM according to each patient profile. There remain however several areas that deserve further research in older adults with T2DM, including the efficacy and safety of continuous glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery systems, the switch to once-weekly insulin, the effectiveness of multidisciplinary care models, and the use of supported telemedicine and remote blood glucose monitoring in the oldest-old (≥85 years) who particularly require the assistance of others.

Effect of non-enzymatic glycation on collagen nanoscale mechanisms in diabetic and age-related bone fragility

Age and diabetes have long been known to induce an oxidative reaction between glucose and collagen, leading to the accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) cross-links in collagenous tissues. More recently, AGEs content has been related to loss of bone quality, independent of bone mass, and increased fracture risk with aging and diabetes. Loss of bone quality is mostly attributed to changes in material properties, structural organization, or cellular remodeling. Though all these factors play a role in bone fragility disease, some common recurring patterns can be found between diabetic and age-related bone fragility. The main pattern we will discuss in this viewpoint is the increase of fibrillar collagen stiffness and loss of collagen-induced plasticity with AGE accumulation. This study focused on recent related experimental studies and discusses the correlation between fluorescent AGEs content at the molecular and fibrillar scales, collagen deformation mechanisms at the nanoscale, and resistance to bone fracture at the macroscale.

Epidemiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus and treatment utilization patterns among the elderly from the first wave of Longitudinal Aging study in India (2017-18)using a Heckman selection model

INTRODUCTION

Unmanaged Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) substantially contributes to the multi-morbidity of the elderly. Fewer research has concentrated on understanding the determinants of treatment utilization among older people, with even lesser concerns about missing data in outcome variables leading to biased estimates. The present study intends to evaluate the epidemiology of T2DM in the elderly in India and explore the socioeconomic and behavioral risk factors determining the treatment utilization among the elderly > 60 years in India by addressing the missing data to generate robust estimates.

METHODS

The secondary analysis used data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India. The key dependent variables were the presence or absence of T2DM and treatment utilization. Descriptive statistics were used to understand the differences in the prevalence of diabetes and the utilization of treatment across various socio-demographic characteristics. Heckman's statistical technique evaluated the predictors of T2DM and treatment utilization. Analysis was done using STATA software version 14.0.

RESULTS

Almost 14% elderly reported to be living with T2DM. The odds of living with T2DM increased with non-working status, a sedentary lifestyle, and a higher BMI. A higher proportion of the elderly was on oral drugs than insulin and had been practicing lifestyle modifications to control their disease. The probability of developing T2DM was lower among females than males, but females had better odds for treatment utilization of health medication than males. Lastly, treatment utilization was significantly affected by socio-demographic characteristics like education and monthly per capita expenditure.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment utilization by the elderly living with T2DM is significantly affected by socio-demographic characteristics. Keeping in mind the increasing proportion of the geriatric population in our country, it is pertinent to tailor-made counseling sessions for the elderly to improve medication utilization and adherence and realize our goals concerning non-communicable diseases.

Dental care and oral conditions are associated with the prevalence of sarcopenia in people with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance, which is closely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is a cause of sarcopenia and people with T2DM have a high risk of sarcopenia. Keeping good oral condition by dental care is important for people with T2DM. Keeping good oral condition by dental care is important for people with T2DM. This study has investigated the association between dental care or oral conditions and sarcopenia in people with T2DM.

METHODS

Dental care and oral conditions were evaluated based on a self-reported questionnaire. Individuals with both low handgrip strength and low skeletal muscle mass index were diagnosed with sarcopenia.

RESULTS

Among 266 people with T2DM, the proportions of sarcopenia, not having a family dentist, not having a toothbrushing behavior, poor chewing ability, and use of complete dentures were 18.0%, 30.5%, 33.1%, 25.2%, and 14.3%, respectively. The proportions of sarcopenia in people not having a family dentist (27.2% vs. 14.1%, p = 0.017), those with poor chewing ability (26.9% vs. 15.1%, p = 0.047), and use of complete dentures (36.8% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.002) were higher than those in people without. The proportion of sarcopenia in people without toothbrushing behavior tended to be higher than that in people with toothbrushing behavior (25.0% vs. 14.6%, p = 0.057). Not having a family dentist (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.48 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21-5.09], p = 0.013), poor chewing ability (adjusted OR 2.12 [95% CI: 1.01-4.46], p = 0.048), and use of complete dentures (adjusted OR 2.38 [95% CI: 1.01-5.99], p = 0.046) were related to the prevalence of sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that dental care and oral conditions were associated with the prevalence of sarcopenia.

Role of a small GTPase Cdc42 in aging and age-related diseases

A small GTPase, Cdc42 is evolutionarily one of the most ancient members of the Rho family, which is ubiquitously expressed and involved in a wide range of fundamental cellular functions. The crucial role of Cdc42 includes regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, cell polarity, morphology and migration, endocytosis and exocytosis, cell cycle, and proliferation in many different cell types. Many studies have provided compelling yet contradicting evidence that Cdc42 dysregulation plays an important role in cellular and tissue aging. Furthermore, Cdc42 is a critical factor in the development and progression of aging-related pathologies, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders, diabetes type 2, and aging-related disorders of the joints and bones, and the inhibition of the Cdc42 demonstrates potentially significant therapeutic and anti-aging effects in animal models of aging and disease. However, regulation of Cdc42 expression and activity is very complex and depends on many factors, such as the origin and complexity of the tissues, hormonal status, etc. Therefore, this review is focused on current advances in understanding the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with Cdc42 activity and regulation of senescence in different cell types since they may provide a foundation for novel therapeutic strategies and targeted drugs to reverse the aging process and treat aging-associated disorders.

Efficacy and Safety of Ultra-Rapid Lispro in Younger and Older Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Randomized Double-Blind PRONTO-T2D Study

INTRODUCTION

Ultra-rapid lispro (URLi) is a new prandial insulin lispro formulation. In the PRONTO-T2D study, URLi, in a basal-bolus regimen with glargine or degludec, was non-inferior to lispro (Humalog^®) for HbA1c reduction and superior for postprandial glucose (PPG) control. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of URLi compared to lispro in younger versus older patients in PRONTO-T2D.

METHODS

PRONTO-T2D was a phase 3, 26-week, double-blind, treat-to-target study in people with type 2 diabetes. In this sub-group analysis, we compared URLi to lispro on the change from baseline  in HbA1c and rate of level 2 hypoglycemia (< 54 mg/dl) in patients aged < 65 (N = 406) and ≥ 65 years (N = 267).

RESULTS

At baseline, patients < 65 versus ≥ 65 years had mean age of 54.9 versus 69.2 years and duration of diabetes 14.6 versus 19.4 years. Mean HbA1c at screening and randomization was 8.35 and 7.34%, respectively, in patients < 65 years, and 8.21 and 7.23%, respectively, in patients ≥ 65 years. At endpoint, mean HbA1c with URLi versus lispro was 6.92 versus 6.90%, respectively, in patients < 65 years and 6.89 versus 6.79%, respectively, in patients ≥ 65 years. URLi significantly reduced 1- and 2-h PPG excursions with a standardized meal test in both age groups: between-treatment differences at 1-h postmeal for younger and older patients was - 9.8 and - 15.1 mg/dl, respectively; and at 2-h postmeal, - 18.7 and - 15.1 mg/dl, respectively, all p < 0.05. Severe and nocturnal hypoglycemia were similar between groups. The relative rate (URLi/Humalog) of level 2 hypoglycemia was lower in older versus younger patients, with a significant treatment-by-age interaction observed. No differential treatment effects were noted for insulin dose, weight, and fasting and maximum glucose after the meal test.

CONCLUSIONS

URLi, in a basal-bolus regimen, resulted in endpoint HbA1c < 7% and significantly lower PPG excursions compared to lispro in both age groups, with reduced level 2 hypoglycemia in older versus younger patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03214380.

Impact of Eating Speed on Muscle Mass in Older Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Study of KAMOGAWA–DM Cohort

Background and Aims

Maintenance of muscle mass is important for sarcopenia prevention. However, the effect of eating speed, especially fast, normal, or slow speed, on muscle mass changes remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this prospective study was to investigate the effect of eating speed on muscle mass changes in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

This study included 284 patients with T2DM. Based on a self–reported questionnaire, participants were classified into three groups: fast–, normal–, and slow–speed eating. Muscle mass was assessed using a multifrequency impedance body composition analyzer, and skeletal muscle mass (SMI) decrease (kg/m²/year) was defined as [baseline SMI (kg/m²)–follow–up SMI (kg/m²)] ÷ follow–up duration (year). The rate of SMI decrease (%) was defined as [SMI decrease (kg/m²/year) ÷ baseline SMI (kg/m²)] × 100.

Results

The proportions of patients with fast–, normal–, and slow–speed eating were, respectively, 50.5%, 42.9%, and 6.6% among those aged <65 years and 40.4%, 38.3%, and 21.3% among those aged ≥65 years. In patients aged ≥65 years, the rate of SMI decrease in the normal (0.85 [95% confidence interval, CI: −0.66 to 2.35]) and slow (0.93 [95% CI −0.61 to 2.46]) speed eating groups was higher than that in the fast speed eating group (−1.08 [95% CI −2.52 to 0.36]). On the contrary, there was no difference in the rate of SMI decrease among the groups in patients aged <65 years. Compared with slow speed eating, the adjusted odds ratios of incident muscle loss [defined as rate of SMI decrease (%) ≥0.5%] due to fast– and normal–speed eating were 0.42 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.98) and 0.82 (95% CI 0.36 to 2.03), respectively.

Conclusion

Slow–speed eating is associated with a higher risk of muscle mass loss in older patients with T2DM.

Eating Speed Is Associated with the Presence of Sarcopenia in Older Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study of the KAMOGAWA-DM Cohort

To determine the relationship between eating speed and the presence of sarcopenia in older patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), in this cross-sectional study, patient eating speeds were classified as “fast-”, “normal-” and “slow-speed eating.” A multifrequency impedance analyzer was used to evaluate patient body compositions. Sarcopenia was defined as having both low muscle strength, a handgrip strength <28 kg for men and <18 kg for women, and low skeletal muscle mass as a skeletal muscle mass index <7.0 kg/m² for men and <5.7 kg/m² for women. Among 239 individuals, the frequencies of fast-, normal-, and slow-speed eating were 47.3%, 32.2%, and 20.5%, respectively; and the prevalence of sarcopenia was 15.9%. Patients with a slow eating speed had greater prevalence of low skeletal muscle mass, low muscle strength, and sarcopenia than those with a fast or normal eating speed. After adjusting for covariates, compared to slow eaters, the odds ratio of having sarcopenia among fast- and normal-speed eaters was 0.31 [95% CI: 0.12–0.80] and 0.18 [95% CI: 0.06–0.53], respectively. Having a slow eating speed is associated with a heightened risk of sarcopenia in older patients with T2D.

Potential Effectiveness of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in Healthy Behavior Interventions for Managing Type 2 Diabetes in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Purpose

A systematic review was conducted to assess how the involvement of a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in healthy behavior interventions (HBIs) potentially affects outcomes in older adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Literature was searched for primary research published between 2016 and 2020 on HBI involving a RDN affecting outcomes in older adults with T2D. Evaluations of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, anthropometry, body composition, medication usage, healthcare cost, and self-efficacy and/or adherence to healthy behaviors outcomes were selected for inclusion. All the literature included were summarized, evaluated for certainty of evidence criteria, and assessed for bias.

Results

A total of 12 studies were included for assessment. Involvement of a RDN in HBI was shown to reduce HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and blood pressure and improve lean body mass, body mass index (BMI), and self-efficacy in populations of older adults with T2D. Compared to older adults with T2D receiving HBI involving RDNs, patients receiving usual care may incur higher healthcare costs or longer hospital stays. There was a high certainty of evidence for a RDN involvement in HBI with regard to reduction in HbA1c. There was a moderate certainty of evidence for a RDN involvement in HBI with regard to favorable changes in weight or body composition and cardiometabolic health outcomes. Statistically significant improvements in outcomes were usually sustained in follow-up after conclusion of HBI.

Conclusion

RDNs may play an integral role in HBIs resulting in improved glycemic control, weight management, cardiovascular outcomes, and presumably comorbidity management. RDNs are important facilitators of diet education and nutrition assessment, which are essential in T2D management and should, therefore, be considered for routine inclusion in interprofessional teams for improved outcomes in older adults with T2D.

Clinical Implications of MiR128, Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Gene Abnormalities and Their Association with T2D

Type 2 DM (T2D) results from the interaction of the genetic and environmental risk factors. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE), and MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) are involved in important physiological processes. Gene variations in VEGF, ACE and MiRNA genes are associated with diseases. In this study we investigated the associations of the VEGF-2578 C/A (rs699947), VEGF-2549 insertion/deletion (I/D), and ACE I/D rs4646994 and Mir128a (rs11888095) gene variations with T2D using the amplification refractory mutation system PCR (ARMS-PCR) and mutation specific PCR (MSP). We screened 122 T2D cases and 126 healthy controls (HCs) for the rs699947, and 133 T2D cases and 133 HCs for the VEGF I/D polymorphism. For the ACE I/D we screened 152 cases and 150 HCs, and we screened 129 cases and 112 HCs for the Mir128a (rs11888095). The results showed that the CA genotype of the VEGF rs699947 and D allele of the VEGF I/D polymorphisms were associated with T2D with OR =2.01, p-value = 0.011, and OR = 2.42, p-value = 0.010, respectively. The result indicated the D allele of the ACE ID was protective against T2D with OR = 0.10, p-value = 0.0001, whereas the TC genotype and the T allele of the Mir128a (rs11888095) were associated with increased risk to T2D with OR = 3.16, p-value = 0.0001, and OR = 1.68, p-value = 0.01, respectively. We conclude that the VEGF (rs699947), VEGF I/D and Mir128a (rs11888095) are potential risk loci for T2D, and that the D allele of the ACE ID polymorphism may be protective against T2D. These results help in identification and stratification for the individuals that at risk for T2D. However, future well-designed studies in different populations and with larger sample sizes are required. Moreover, studies to examine the effects of these polymorphisms on VEGF and ACE proteins are recommended.

Association between Geriatric Nutrition Risk Index and The Presence of Sarcopenia in People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to examine the association between the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) and the prevalence of sarcopenia in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Having both low handgrip strength (<28 kg for men and <18 kg for women) and low skeletal muscle mass index (<7.0 kg/m2 for men and <5.7 kg/m2 for women) was diagnosed as sarcopenia. GNRI was estimated by the formula as below: GNRI = (1.489 × serum albumin level [g/L]) + (41.7 × [current body weight (kg)/ideal body weight (kg)]). Participants were dichotomized on the basis of their GNRI scores (GNRI < 98, low; or GNRI ≥ 98, high). Among 526 people (301 men and 225 women) with T2DM, the proportions of participants with sarcopenia and low GNRI were 12.7% (n = 67/526) and 5.1% (n = 27/526), respectively. The proportion of sarcopenia in participants with low-GNRI was higher than that with high GNRI (44.4% [n = 12/27] vs. 11.0% [n = 55/499], p < 0.001). The GNRI showed positive correlations with handgrip strength (r = 0.232, p < 0.001) and skeletal muscle mass index (r = 0.514, p < 0.001). Moreover, low GNRI was related to the prevalence of sarcopenia (adjusted odds ratio, 4.88 [95% confidence interval: 1.88-12.7], p = 0.001). The GNRI, as a continuous variable, was also related to the prevalence of sarcopenia (adjusted odds ratio, 0.89 [95% confidence interval: 0.86-0.93], p < 0.001). The present study revealed that low GNRI was related to the prevalence of sarcopenia.

Precision health care strategies for older adults with diabetes in Indonesia: a Delphi consensus study

BACKGROUND Studies on precision health care for older adults with diabetes in Indonesia are still limited. This study was aimed to reach the experts consensus on the suitable precision health care strategies for older adults with diabetes. METHODS A total of 10 experts (4 physicians, 4 nurses, and 2 dietitians) agreed to participate in the 3-round interview using Delphi technique. The experts should have at least 5 years of experience in teaching or working as health professionals in a hospital. RESULTS Consensus was reached that precision health care consisted of eight elements: self-management, interdisciplinary collaborative practice, personalized genetic or lifestyle factors, glycemic target, patient preferences, glycemic control, patient priority-directed care, and biodata- or evidence-based practice. The strategies of precision health care for diabetes were divided into seven steps: conducting brief deducting teaching; assessing self-management level and risk of cardiovascular disease; organizing a brainstorming session among patients to exchange experiences on glycemic target and specific target behavior; making a list of patients’ needs and ranking the priorities; setting a goal and writing action; doing follow-up; and reporting the goal attempts. CONCLUSIONS The eight elements of precision health care provided the basis of precision health care strategies for diabetic older adults, which are the real and measurable strategies for precision health care implementation in clinical settings.

Role of Epigenetics in Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

Epigenetic marks the genome by DNA methylation, histone modification or non-coding RNAs. Epigenetic marks instruct cells to respond reversibly to environmental cues and keep the specific gene expression stable throughout life. In this review, we concentrate on DNA methylation, the mechanism often associated with transgenerational persistence and for this reason frequently used in the clinic. A large study that included data from 10,000 blood samples detected 187 methylated sites associated with body mass index (BMI). The same study demonstrates that altered methylation results from obesity (OB). In another study the combined genetic and epigenetic analysis allowed us to understand the mechanism associating hepatic insulin resistance and non-alcoholic disease in Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) patients. The study underlines the therapeutic potential of epigenetic studies. We also account for seemingly contradictory results associated with epigenetics.

Vitamin Intake and Loss of Muscle Mass in Older People with Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Study of the KAMOGAWA-DM Cohort

The aim of this prospective cohort study was to examine the relationships between the intakes of various vitamins and the loss of muscle mass in older people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The change in skeletal muscle mass index (SMI, kg/m²) (kg/m²/year) was defined as follows: (SMI at baseline (kg/m²) - SMI at follow-up (kg/m²))/follow-up period (year). The rate of SMI reduction (%) was calculated as follows (the change in SMI (kg/m²/year)/SMI at baseline (kg/m²)) × 100. The rate of SMI reduction ≥ 1.2% was considered as the loss of muscle mass. Among 197 people with T2DM, 47.2% of them experienced the loss of muscle mass at the 13.7 ± 5.2 month follow-up. Vitamin B1 (0.8 ± 0.3 vs. 0.8 ± 0.3 mg/day, p = 0.031), vitamin B12 (11.2 ± 8.3 vs. 13.4 ± 7.5 μg/day, p = 0.049), and vitamin D (16.5 ± 12.2 vs. 21.6 ± 13.0 μg/day, p = 0.004) intakes in people with the loss of muscle mass were significantly lower than those without. Vitamin D intake was related to the loss of muscle mass after adjusting for sex, age, exercise, alcohol, smoking, body mass index, SMI, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist, sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor, insulin, HbA1c, creatinine, energy intake, and protein intake (adjusted odds ratio 0.93, 95% confidence interval: 0.88-0.97, p = 0.003). This study showed that vitamin D intake was related to the loss of muscle mass in older people with T2DM. Vitamin B12 intake tended to be related to the loss of muscle mass, although vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E intake were not related.

Effect of reflexology on ankle brachial index, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and glycemic control in older adults with diabetes: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of foot reflexology on ankle brachial index, diabetic peripheral neuropathy and glycemic control in older adults with diabetes.

METHODS

A randomized controlled, parallel-group trial study was conducted at the outpatient elderly health center in Bolu, Turkey. 48 adults aged 65 and over enrolled in the elderly health center were randomized into two groups in a ratio of 1:1 (experimental, n = 24; control, n = 24). Foot reflexology was performed for 12-week in the experimental group, whereas the control group continued their routine treatment and follow-up. The outcome measures included: (1) ankle brachial index, (2) diabetic peripheral neuropathy measured by a comprehensive foot exam, and (3) glycemic control by a glycated hemoglobin A blood test at baseline and after 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Post-test diabetic peripheral neuropathy scores (p < 0.001) and glycated hemoglobin A levels (p = 0.002) decreased in the experimental group and increased in the control group. There was no significant between-group difference regarding post-test ankle brachial index scores (p = 0.726). Foot reflexology had a medium effect size on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (95% confidence interval 0.003-2.24; d = 0.51; p < 0.001) and glycated hemoglobin A (95% confidence interval 0.72-1.22; d = 0.52; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

A foot reflexology practice can be a useful for improving the glycemic control and diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the older adults with diabetes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04416503.

Sarcopenia Is Associated With a Risk of Mortality in People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia has reportedly been associated with increased risk of mortality in general populations. However, few studies have investigated the association between sarcopenia and mortality in older people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). This study aimed to investigate the effect of sarcopenia on incident all-cause mortality in older people with T2D.

METHODS

Low muscle strength were set at handgrip strength <28 kg for men and <18 kg for women, and low skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), evaluated using the impedance body composition analyzer, were set at SMI <7.0 kg/m² for men and <5.7 kg/m² for women. People who had both low muscle strength and low SMI were diagnosed with sarcopenia. Due to a low incidence of all-cause mortality, the propensity score was used. The propensity score was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression models with the following parameters: age, sex, duration of diabetes, history of heart disease, history of cancer, smoking, exercise, alcohol, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, insulin, corticosteroid, hypertension, body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, triglycerides, and creatinine, and the C-statistic was 0.89.

RESULTS

In this prospective cohort study, 396 people with an average age and duration of diabetes of 71.3 (6.3) years and 16.3 (11.3) years, respectively, were included. Of those included, 14.6% had sarcopenia. During the average 40.5 (16.5) months of follow-up, 13 people (6 out of the 338 without sarcopenia and 7 out of the 58 with sarcopenia) died. Incident rate were 5.1/1000 person years of follow-up in people without sarcopenia and 41.3/1000 person years of follow-up in people with sarcopenia. According to Cox regression analysis, sarcopenia was associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio: 6.12, 95% confidence interval: 1.52-24.7, p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia is associated with incident all-cause mortality in older outpatients with T2D.

Real-World Effectiveness of Dulaglutide in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Literature Review

INTRODUCTION

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the efficacy of dulaglutide in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but results may not be generalizable in routine practice. This pragmatic literature review aimed to summarize real-world evidence (RWE) for dulaglutide.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, NHS Economic Evaluation Database, and Health Technology Assessment databases were searched from January 2014 to July 2019 for studies providing RWE for dulaglutide in adults with T2DM regarding at least one outcome of interest (change in glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c]; weight; adherence; persistence; discontinuation; costs; healthcare resource utilization; health-related quality of life; patient satisfaction; and preference). Relevant congress abstracts were identified from EMBASE.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies (11 articles; 18 abstracts) were included. RWE for dulaglutide was not identified for all outcomes of interest. Dulaglutide reduced HbA1c from baseline to 3-24 months by 0.5-2.2% across studies (n = 20), and 23.4-55.7% of patients achieved HbA1c < 7.0%. Weight was reduced by 2.1-6.4 kg across studies of 3-12 months (n = 15). Based on outcomes from ten studies, 27.2-61.0% of dulaglutide patients were adherent. Mean persistence was 146-152 days and > 250 days in 6- and 12-month studies, respectively. Most studies reported discontinuation rates of 26.2-37.0%. Adherence and persistence were consistently reported to be greater in dulaglutide-treated patients in RW settings compared with other glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. Dulaglutide was associated with lower costs per 1% reduction in HbA1c compared with exenatide, liraglutide, or basal insulin (n = 3 studies).

CONCLUSION

Evidence from RWE studies suggests that dulaglutide may be associated with clinically relevant reductions in HbA1c, with a favorable adherence, persistence, and discontinuation profile in patients with T2DM in routine clinical practice. These findings provide additional insights regarding the potential value of dulaglutide in real-world settings that may assist healthcare decision makers in the delivery of patient-centered care.