Issue 213 Item 14 Avoiding Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) In Type 2’’s

A new study at a Midwestern University explains why people with type 2 diabetes and women with gestational diabetes are more likely to develop urinary tract infections (UTIs) than people with type 1 diabetes . The researchers focused on the effects of insulin on Escherichia coli bacteria, which commonly cause UTIs. They found that concentrations of insulin and glucose similar to levels found in the urine of people with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes increase the ability of E. coli to adhere in the bladder .

The researchers also found insulin affects the cell surface of E. coli in ways that may help protect the bacteria against antibiotics .

Karolina Klosowka, researcher said in a prepared statement "Based on our observations, it appears that insulin with glucose affects the growth and some of the surface characteristics of E. coli that correlate with its ability to cause urinary tract infections,"

"These findings bring a new perspective in helping to understand why patients with type 2 diabetes and females with gestational diabetes have a higher incidence of urinary tract infections," Klosowka said.