Workshop VII - patient population and genetics: role in diabetes
Article Abstract:
There seems to be a relationship, albeit a very poorly understood one, between insulin resistance, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and coronary artery disease. In particular, it appears that, at least in some groups of patients, insulin resistance is strongly related to hypertension, suggesting a common genetic basis. (Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's tissues become unresponsive to the effects of insulin on sugar metabolism.) The fact that some groups of individuals, such as Pima Indians, show a dramatic blunting of the relationship between these two conditions makes a common gene for insulin resistance and hypertension less likely. Intermediate correlations are seen in groups such as Mexican-Americans and Sioux Indians, and the strongest linkage is seen in non-Hispanic whites. If a single major gene defect is responsible for hypertension and insulin resistance, it suggests consistence with, but not proof of, susceptibility to NIDDM (non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus) in some ethnic groups. The heritability (the degree to which a trait is passed on from parent to offspring) of hypertension is not well understood, further complicating the study of genetic components. Strong support for a common genetic link between insulin resistance and diabetes is being expressed. . Further study of the relationship between insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and other cardiovascular diseases will require the collection of much new data; physicians involved in treating patients with one or more of these conditions should contribute their findings to the current store of data. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: American Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0002-9343
Year: 1991
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Workshop VI - regression of atherosclerosis: what does it mean?
Article Abstract:
Atherosclerosis is a condition that results when fatty deposits (atherosclerotic plaques) build up on the inner surface of blood vessels. When this occurs in the coronary arteries, it can lead to coronary artery disease and permanent heart damage. In recent years, it has become apparent that atherosclerosis can be reversed in patients who have been diagnosed with the condition. The first evidence for regression of atherosclerosis came from World War II starvation victims, in whom a lower incidence of atherosclerosis was noted than would have been expected on demographic divisions. Since that time, dietary and drug approaches to reversing atherosclerosis have received much study. Apparent amelioration of coronary atherosclerosis can take place in two ways: either the plaque can undergo an actual decrease in size, or the plaque-free region of the coronary artery can undergo physical changes resulting in improved blood flow. Studies of the incidence of atherosclerosis regression suggest that this phenomenon occurs spontaneously, but with an extremely low frequency. In patients with moderate to advanced atherosclerosis, stabilization of plaque level is probably a more realistic goal than plaque reduction, even with dietary counseling and pharmacological therapies. The effect that successful treatment of atherosclerosis will have on the quality and duration of life varies widely from patient to patient, and must be considered in the development of any treatment regimen. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: American Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0002-9343
Year: 1991
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