Researchers have discovered a hormone, called resistin, that fat cells release and which interferes with the activity of insulin, causing type 2 diabetes. Scientists are studying this new hormone to find the normal role of resistin. It appears to be part of the missing link between obesity and diabetes that they think may have developed during the early evolution of man as a response to periods of low food supply. Older women taking insulin for type 2 diabetes are nearly twice as likely to fracture a foot, hip or shoulder, regardless of bone density or weight. Other diabetes-associated conditions such as poor vision and nerve damage may also increase the risk of a fracture.
Diabetes can make bones more vulnerable to fracture and pose an increased risk for amputation.
Clinicians should consider covering fracture prevention in older women, including how to prevent falls and detecting and treating low bone density. Recent advances in research have led to better management of diabetes and treatment of its complications. Insulin pumps, both external and implantable, that automatically release correct amounts of insulin. Laser treatment to reduce the risk of blindness. Kidney transplants for people whose own kidneys fail because of diabetes.