Skin autofluorescence can predict type 2 diabetes, CVD and death

New research published in Diabetologia (the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes [EASD]) shows that non-invasive measurement of skin autofluorescence (SAF) can predict future risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality, independent of other measures such as measuring blood glucose levels. This quick, non-invasive technique could be potentially used in non-medical settings or public locations such as supermarkets, pharmacies or drug stores as a first estimate of risk of these conditions, says study lead author Professor Bruce Wolffenbuttel, Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands, and colleagues. The worldwide prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing rapidly; it is predicted to be close to 650 million in 2040. Cardiovascular complications are the main drivers of increased morbidity and premature mortality in diabetes. Several risk factors, such obesity and fasting blood glucose, predict the development of type 2 diabetes and CVD. More recent research has shown that patients with type 2 diabetes have higher levels of chemicals called advanced…