Fact 12: The Impact of Diabetes on Brain Structure
Recent research studies have shown that diabetes might affect the structure of the brain, contributing to cognitive decline and dementia. These structural changes often involve brain atrophy, or shrinkage, particularly in areas related to memory and cognitive function.
People with diabetes, particularly those with poor blood sugar control, have been found to have a greater degree of brain atrophy compared to those without diabetes. These changes in brain structure could contribute to the cognitive decline often seen in people with diabetes.
Moreover, diabetes-related complications, such as high blood pressure and stroke, can further contribute to these structural changes in the brain. These complications can lead to vascular damage in the brain, potentially accelerating cognitive decline and increasing the risk of dementia. (12)
