Type 2 diabetes and the skeleton: new insights into sweet bones.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2016

Institution/Department

Center for Clinical & Translational Research; Maine Medical Center Research Institute

Journal Title

Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol

MeSH Headings

Bone Density, Bone Diseases, Bone and Bones, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Female, Fractures, Bone, Humans, Hypoglycemic Agents, Middle Aged

Abstract

Substantial evidence shows that skeletal fragility should be considered among the complications associated with type 2 diabetes. Individuals with type 2 diabetes have increased fracture risk, despite normal bone mineral density (BMD) and high BMI-factors that are generally protective against fractures. The mechanisms underlying skeletal fragility in diabetes are not completely understood, but are multifactorial and likely include effects of obesity, hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress, and accumulation of advanced glycation end products, leading to altered bone metabolism, structure, and strength. Clinicians should be aware that BMD measurements underestimate fracture risk in people with type 2 diabetes, and that new treatments for diabetes, with neutral or positive effects on skeletal health, might play a part in the management of diabetes in those at high risk of fracture. Data for the optimum management of osteoporosis in patients with type 2 diabetes are scarce, but in the absence of evidence to the contrary, physicians should follow guidelines established for postmenopausal osteoporosis.

ISSN

2213-8595

First Page

159

Last Page

173

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