This week (11 February) it was reported that type 2 diabetes has increased by 40% in Scotland over the past 10 years and there has been a 2.2% rise in Wales since last year.
Dr Glen Davison, an expert in nutrition and exercise immunology at Kent’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, has provided comment about the further health implications that those with type 2 diabetes can experience. He said:
‘Type 2 diabetes places considerable demand on health services. In addition to the well-known problems for people with type 2 diabetes, they also have increased susceptibility to infections and associated complications. Respiratory infections, such as influenza, may cause a number of complications in people with diabetes, which can result in hospitalisation, long-term complications or even have fatal consequences.
‘It has been estimated that the risk of death due to influenza or pneumonia is up to 80% higher in people with diabetes, compared with those without the disease. Influenza vaccination is a suitable preventative strategy but there is considerable evidence showing that influenza vaccination has low efficacy. This evidence suggests that it does not induce a sufficient protection, in as much as 70% of people with diabetes, compared to 40% in people without the disease.
A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, has numerous benefits for the management of type 2 diabetes. However, research has also shown that moderate exercise can improve immune function, reducing infection risk. Additionally, it can enhance influenza vaccination efficacy. This could be of great benefit in people with type 2 diabetes as a way to reduce illness risk, along with all the other general health benefits to be gained from exercise.’
Dr Glen Davison is the Director of Research at the University of Kent’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences. His current research focuses on nutrition and exercise immunology, particularly in people with diabetes, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Parkinson’s Disease. Further interests are interval training, Sport & Exercise Science support of athletes in sports including football, rugby, hockey, athletics, endurance/long distance running, triathlon and cycling.
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