Joining social groups ‘lowers diabetes risk’

Social participation in clubs and groups has been linked to a lower risk of diabetes.

A study found that socially isolated individuals were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes more often than individuals with larger social networks.

A lack of participation in clubs or other social groups was associated with 60% higher odds of pre-diabetes and 112% higher odds of type 2 diabetes in women compared to those with normal glucose metabolism.

In men, lack of social participation was associated with 42% higher odds of type 2 diabetes, the research carried out in the Netherlands found.

Men living alone was also associated with 94% higher odds of type 2 diabetes.

Dr Miranda Schram, of Maastricht University, said: “High-risk groups for type 2 diabetes should broaden their network and should be encouraged to make new friends, as well as become members of a club, such as a volunteer organisation, sports club or discussion group.

“As men living alone seem to be at a higher risk for the development of type 2 diabetes, they should become recognised as a high-risk group in health care. In addition, social network size and participation in social activities may eventually be used as indicators of diabetes risk.”

Lead author Stephanie Brinkhues said: “We are the first to determine the association of a broad range of social network characteristics – such as social support, network size or type of relationships – with different stages of type 2 diabetes.

“Our findings support the idea that resolving social isolation may help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.”