Glycemic Control is Key to Keeping Diabetics Out of the Hospital
Noel Peterson, N.D.
Reducing glycosylated hemoglobin levels in both early- and late-onset diabetics may help avoid later hospitalization from complications, potentially saving billions in healthcare costs. Researchers from the University of Wisconsin Medical School measured possible factors affecting diabetes prognosis in both early- and late-onset diabetics, including blood pressure, body mass index, and smoking and drinking habits. After four- and ten-year follow-ups with over 1300 subjects, they found that while blood pressure played an important role, glycosylated hemoglobin levels were the most significant prognostic markers in both groups.
"Glycemic control was the most important factor related to hospitalization," researchers stated. Nearly 40% of diabetics with high levels of glycosylated hemoglobin were hospitalized four years later, regardless of whether they had developed diabetes early or late in life. This relationship was also independent of other risk factors.
Because controlling blood sugar levels can significantly reduce microvascular complications from diabetes, lowering glycosylated hemoglobin offers a powerful preventative approach with enormous potential benefit to the healthcare system.
"Reducing glycosylated hemoglobin level by just 1%," the authors stated, "could reduce hospitalization by 14% to 20% and save as much as $4 billion to $5 billion in direct costs alone." Practitioners need to exercise caution, however, to avoid overly aggressive treatment strategies that can result in hypoglycemia, as these complications could offset cost savings.
"Identification of modifiable risk factors is the first step toward prevention of hospitalization and reduction of attendant costs," the researchers concluded.
Our cilinic utilizes mmultiple tests to detect and monitor glycemic control, and a rational nutrition based protocol for keeping your blood sugar at a healthy level. Contact the Center appointment information.
Source: Moss SE, Klein R, Klein BEK. Risk factors for hospitalization in people with diabetes. Arch Intern Med 1999;159:2053-2057. Available online at URL: http://archinte.ama-assn.org/issues/v159n17/full/ioi81058.html