Report Ties Air Pollution to Diabetes Risk

10/6/2010

In light of the many serious health risks that diabetes can cause, it makes sense for people to do what they can to reduce their chance of being diagnosed with this condition.

However, recent research suggests that along diet and exercise, one's exposure to air pollution may also be a factor in a future diabetes diagnosis. According to a recent announcement from Children's Hospital Boston, particulate matter air pollution has a "strong, consistent correlation" with type 2 diabetes.

"Many environmental factors may contribute to the epidemic of diabetes in the United States and worldwide," said Dr. Allison Goldfine, a study coauthor. "While a lot of attention has correctly been attributed to caloric excess and sedentary behaviors, additional factors may provide novel approaches to diabetes prevention."

The particulate matter pollution typically comes from motor vehicle exhaust and haze and smoke from industrial activities and other sources. Researchers particularly expressed concern that even air pollution falling lower than EPA limits was sufficient to increase diabetes levels.

From a life and health insurance perspective, diabetes is often seen as a pre-existing condition that will trigger higher premiums. With that in mind, taking steps to lower one's risk can save money as well as lives.

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