Cambridge scientists are advocating additional research into the little understood links between environmental pollution and type 2 diabetes. In a recent edition of the Lancet, Drs Oliver Jones and Julian Griffin highlight the need to research the possible link between persistent organic pollutants (POPs), a group which includes many pesticides) and insulin resistance, which can lead to adult onset diabetes.
In their commentary, Dr Jones and Dr. Griffin cite peer reviewed research including that of Dr D Lee, et al, which demonstrated a very strong relationship between the levels of POPs in blood, particularly organochlorine compounds, and the risk of type 2 diabetes.
“Of course correlation does not automatically imply causation,” says Dr. Jones. “But if there is indeed a link, the health implications could be tremendous. At present there is very limited information. Research into adult onset diabetes currently focuses on genetics and obesity; there has been almost no consideration for the possible influence of environmental factors such as pollution.”
Release date: January 25, 2008
Source: University of Cambridge
Filed Under: Drug Discovery
