Insulin Use in Type 2 Diabetes and the Risk of Dementia

There has been some research that suggests that insulin use in people with type 2 diabetes may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, more recent research has found that this association may be due to confounding factors, such as the severity of diabetes and other health conditions. 

A 2023 study published in the journal Diabetes Care looked at data from over 33,000 people with type 2 diabetes in British Columbia, Canada. The study found that there was no significant association between insulin use and the risk of dementia, after taking into account confounding factors. 

The study’s authors concluded that “among persons with T2DM previously exposed to two noninsulin antihyperglycemic medications, no significant association was observed between insulin use and all-cause dementia.” 

However, it is important to note that this study was observational, which means that it cannot prove that insulin use causes dementia. More research is needed to confirm these findings. 

In the meantime, people with type 2 diabetes who are concerned about their risk of dementia should talk to their doctor about ways to reduce their risk, such as controlling their blood sugar levels, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet. 

Here are some other things that people with type 2 diabetes can do to reduce their risk of dementia: 

• Get regular eye exams. 
• Get regular hearing exams. 
• Manage their blood pressure. 
• Manage their cholesterol levels. 
• Stay mentally active. 
• Get enough sleep. 

If you are concerned about your risk of dementia, talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your risk and develop a plan to reduce it.